President Bola Tinubu, during his visit to Beijing, vowed to replicate China’s advanced infrastructure in Nigeria. Addressing Nigerians in China, he discussed Nigeria’s ongoing reforms, including the fuel price hike, aimed at fostering national development. Tinubu highlighted cooperation in trade and infrastructure during talks with Chinese leaders and encouraged the diaspora to contribute to Nigeria’s progress.
President Bola Tinubu, on Friday, concluded his official visit to China by meeting with the Nigerian community in Beijing, where he assured that his administration is committed to replicating the high-quality infrastructure seen in China within Nigeria. Addressing members of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization in China (NIDO China) at the China World Hotel, Tinubu emphasized the importance of improved infrastructure in Nigeria, including better schools and business opportunities.
“We want our children to be in good schools, not tattered huts and dilapidated buildings. We must make our teaching innovative and allow businesses of all kinds and sizes to flourish,” Tinubu stated.
The President defended the recent fuel price hike in Nigeria, describing it as a bold reform necessary for the country’s progress. He emphasized that hard decisions must be made to ensure the country’s future development, citing China’s consistent electricity supply, water availability, and efficient public services as benchmarks for Nigeria.
“Can we develop good roads like you have here? You see electricity being constant, water supply running, and good schools. What is the critical part to get us there if we cannot take hard decisions to pave the way for a country that is blessed and so talented?” Tinubu argued.
During his meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, Tinubu focused on enhancing cooperation in infrastructure, trade, finance, energy, and the green economy. He also urged the Nigerian diaspora in China to be good ambassadors and exemplify the discipline and commitment required to build a strong nation.
Highlighting the role of Nigeria’s Bank of Industry (BoI), Tinubu encouraged Nigerians in China to leverage investment opportunities back home, stressing the importance of national contribution and personal responsibility.
Earlier, NIDO China President Dr. Oche Barnabas commended Tinubu for his efforts to boost Nigeria-China relations. He requested the President’s assistance in having Nigeria officially recognized as a native English-speaking nation in China to open job and educational opportunities for Nigerians.
Barnabas concluded by expressing NIDO China’s dedication to supporting Nigeria’s development initiatives, especially in trade and investment collaboration with China.
Keywords: President Tinubu, Nigeria-China relations, infrastructure development, fuel price hike, Nigerians in diaspora, NIDO China, economic reforms, trade cooperation, education, Bank of Industry.
