“I Have a Very Good Team” – President Tinubu Declares During Meeting with Nigerian Diaspora in China

President Bola Tinubu concluded his official visit to China by engaging with members of the Nigerian community living in the country. Speaking to the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO) and other Nigerians at a meeting in Beijing, the President described his trip as “very good and successful.”

During the event at the China World Hotel, Tinubu highlighted key discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. These discussions, focused on bolstering infrastructure, trade, energy, and green economy collaborations, were held during the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit. Tinubu emphasized the importance of these partnerships for Nigeria’s future development.

The President urged Nigerians in China to be good ambassadors, encouraging them to maintain discipline and uphold the nation’s values while living abroad. “China is a very disciplined society, and we need to be disciplined too. Without commitment, we cannot build a nation that commands respect,” he said.

Tinubu also touched on ongoing reforms in Nigeria, including recent fuel price increases, stating that bold decisions are necessary to drive infrastructure improvements. He assured the diaspora that these reforms would pave the way for a better future, with plans to replicate some of China’s infrastructural achievements back in Nigeria.

A key point from the President’s speech was the role of Nigeria’s Bank of Industry in supporting diaspora efforts to invest in the country’s economic growth. Tinubu expressed confidence that his government is focused on long-term development and is committed to making tough decisions, adding, “I have a very good team.”

In response, Dr. Oche Barnabas, President of NIDO China, commended Tinubu’s leadership and reaffirmed the organization’s support for stronger Nigeria-China relations. He also requested the President’s advocacy for Nigeria to be recognized as a native English-speaking nation in China, a move that could open doors to more job and educational opportunities for Nigerians.

The meeting ended on a positive note, with NIDO China pledging to continue supporting Tinubu’s administration and contributing to Nigeria’s global image.