“We Must Take Hard Decisions to Pave the Way for a Better Future” – President Tinubu Hails ‘Very Successful’ China Visit
Beijing, China — President Bola Tinubu has described his official visit to China as “very good and successful,” emphasizing the strong strides made in strengthening cooperation in infrastructure, trade, finance, energy, green economy, and mining. Speaking to members of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO) and the Nigerian community in China on Friday at the China World Hotel in Beijing, the President outlined the key achievements of his discussions with Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang.
President Tinubu’s visit, which also included participation in the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit, is expected to deepen bilateral ties between the two countries, particularly in areas that can drive Nigeria’s development agenda.
“What is uppermost in my mind is for you to continue representing Nigeria as good citizens,” Tinubu told the gathering of Nigerians in China. “We will always celebrate our diversity, but this diversity is also our commitment to serve. If it is about service, we must be good citizens.”
Citing China’s disciplined society as an example, Tinubu called on Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to demonstrate the same discipline and commitment to national service. He stressed that such qualities are essential to build a nation that earns respect globally.
“I cannot tell you more, except from the embassy, that China is a very disciplined society and we have to be disciplined too,” he said. “Without discipline and commitment, we cannot build a nation that is respected everywhere in the world.”
One of the key takeaways from the President’s visit is his plan to replicate China’s quality infrastructure back in Nigeria. Tinubu assured Nigerians in the Diaspora that the Bank of Industry is prepared to collaborate with them to explore investment opportunities at home.
“Nigeria is going through reforms, and we are taking very bold and unprecedented decisions,” Tinubu explained, addressing concerns over domestic challenges like fuel prices. “Can we develop good roads like you have here? You see electricity being constant in quantity and quality, you see water supply, and you see their good schools. And we say we want to hand over a banner without stain to our children? We must take hard decisions to pave the way for a better future.”
The President applauded the contributions of Nigerians in China, particularly their mastery of the Mandarin language and integration into local society. He urged them to continue using their talents to positively influence attitudes and contribute to Nigeria’s development.
“We want our children to be in good schools, not tattered huts and dilapidated buildings,” he stated. “One economic action leads to another, and it is in your hands to build our nation. Mine is to provide the leadership, and I am committed to doing just that.”
President Tinubu’s visit to China marks a key milestone in his administration’s efforts to strengthen international partnerships while implementing reforms aimed at modernizing Nigeria’s infrastructure and economic systems.
