President Tinubu Concludes Visit to China, Heads to the UK via Dubai
Wisdom Tide
07/09/2024
President Bola Tinubu has concluded his official visit to China, setting his next destination as the United Kingdom, with a brief stopover in Dubai. According to the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, this trip marks the continuation of the President's diplomatic engagements aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s global partnerships.
Before departing from China, President Tinubu engaged with members of the Nigerian diaspora, including representatives of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO China) and other members of the Nigerian community. The meeting took place at the China World Hotel, where the President assured Nigerians living abroad of his administration’s commitment to delivering good governance and advancing national development.
In his address, President Tinubu highlighted the ongoing challenges in Nigeria, noting that the economic hardships being experienced are a necessary phase of the government's reform efforts. These reforms, he said, are crucial to ensuring sustainable growth and development, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, energy, and education.
Economic Reforms and National Sacrifices
President Tinubu underscored the importance of patience and sacrifice in the pursuit of national development. He explained that the rise in fuel prices, which has caused widespread concern, is part of the broader economic reforms aimed at overhauling Nigeria's infrastructure. The removal of fuel subsidies, he stressed, is a bold step towards freeing up resources for investment in essential public services.
“Nigeria is undergoing reforms, and we are making bold and unprecedented decisions,” President Tinubu stated. He elaborated that the economic sacrifices required today are intended to lay the foundation for future prosperity, emphasizing that without such difficult choices, meaningful progress would be unattainable.
Referring to his experiences during his time in China, the President remarked on the country's impressive achievements in infrastructure, energy, and education. He noted that China’s sustained development could serve as a model for Nigeria, particularly in terms of building reliable public services such as electricity, water supply, and transportation networks.
“Can we help it?” he asked rhetorically. “Can we develop good roads like you have here? You see electricity being constant in quantity and quality, you see water supply flowing consistently, and you see well-maintained schools. If we desire to leave a legacy for our children, we must embrace the need for hard decisions.”
A Vision for Nigeria’s Future
President Tinubu expressed his vision for Nigeria, which centers on replicating China’s success in infrastructure and economic development. He highlighted the need for strong leadership and a national consensus on key issues, while acknowledging that achieving such unity can be challenging.
“I intend to replicate some of what I have seen here in China back home in Nigeria,” the President affirmed. “It is never easy to achieve a national consensus, but I am committed to taking the necessary steps, no matter how tough, to move our country forward.”
Tinubu’s administration, he noted, is determined to improve critical sectors such as education and healthcare. “We want our children to be in good schools, not in tattered huts or dilapidated buildings,” he said, adding that innovation in teaching and the creation of an enabling environment for businesses of all sizes are essential to national progress.
The President also emphasized the role of Nigerians in the diaspora in shaping the country's future. He urged them to leverage their skills and experiences to contribute positively to Nigeria’s development.
“So many of you are talented and fluent in Mandarin,” Tinubu remarked, acknowledging the linguistic abilities of Nigerians living in China. “What you contribute to Nigeria, and how you engage with those back home, will play a significant role in shaping the attitudes and ambitions of our people.”
Strengthening Bilateral Relations with China
During his time in China, President Tinubu held productive discussions with Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. These talks focused on deepening cooperation between Nigeria and China in critical areas such as infrastructure, trade, finance, energy, and the green economy.
The President led Nigeria’s delegation to the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), where he reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with China and other African nations. The summit provided a platform for African leaders to explore ways to enhance collaboration with China, particularly in the context of sustainable development.
Tinubu described his visit to China as both "very good and successful," highlighting the mutual benefits of closer cooperation between the two nations. The discussions, he said, will open new opportunities for investment in Nigeria, particularly in sectors that are critical to the country’s long-term growth.
A Commitment to Leadership and National Unity
President Tinubu reiterated his commitment to providing strong leadership for Nigeria, stating that his administration is fully focused on addressing the country’s most pressing challenges. He acknowledged that the road ahead will not be easy, but expressed confidence in Nigeria's potential to overcome its difficulties.
“One economic action leads to another, and it is in your hands to build our nation,” he told the Nigerian community in China. “My role is to provide leadership, and I am fully committed to doing just that.”
The President concluded by emphasizing the importance of unity and collective responsibility in nation-building. He called on Nigerians at home and abroad to support the government's efforts and to remain patient as the country undergoes this critical period of reform.
“We are in this together,” he said. “The sacrifices we make today are for the greater good of our children and the generations to come.”
With these remarks, President Tinubu wrapped up his official engagements in China and embarked on the next leg of his diplomatic tour. His stop in Dubai precedes his arrival in London, where further international engagements are expected to take place.
The President’s recent travels reflect his administration’s proactive approach to strengthening Nigeria’s global partnerships and advancing national development through strategic international cooperation.
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