Tinubu Says His Policies May Seem Tough But Necessary To Bring About Genuine Reforms, Promises To Replicate China’s Infrastructure Model In Nigeria

President Bola Tinubu reflected on his trip to Beijing, China, where he attended the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). He commented on Nigeria’s current energy crisis, stating that sometimes hard reforms are necessary to create a country that can satisfy everyone.

He mentioned that nations such as China, which he has seen to be highly disciplined and successful in infrastructural development, did not appear out of nowhere; instead, it required some tough reforms supported by the citizens themselves.

Tinubu made these remarks to members of the Nigerian Diaspora Organisation in China (NIDO China) and the Nigerian community at the China World Hotel to conclude his trip to China.

According to him, discipline and commitment were essential to national service, citing China’s disciplined society as an example for Nigerians to follow.

“I cannot tell you more, except the embassy, that China is a much-disciplined society, and we must also be disciplined. We cannot build a world-respected nation without discipline and commitment.

“We must capitalise on our diversity and be prepared to do whatever is required of us within the laws of the communities in which we live, while also reflecting a positive image of our country.”

President Tinubu emphasised the importance of investments in China’s economy and assured Nigerians in the Diaspora that Nigeria’s Bank of Industry is ready to work with them to leverage opportunities back home.

“Nigeria is undergoing reforms, and we are making very bold and unprecedented decisions. For example, you may have heard from home about fuel prices in the last few days.

“But, can we help it? Can we build good roads like you have here? You see that the quantity and quality of electricity remain constant. You see a steady supply of water, as well as good schools. And we want to hand over a banner that is free of stains to our children?

“What is the critical component to getting us there if we are unable to make difficult decisions to pave the way for a country so blessed and talented?”

“Many of you are extremely talented and fluent in Mandarin. What you contribute and say at home will have an impact on our people’s attitudes.”

The President stated that the more you want everything for free, the more expensive and time-consuming it will be to achieve meaningful development.

To the audience’s applause, President Tinubu stated that one key takeaway from his visit to China is a commitment to replicate China’s infrastructure at home.

“We want our children to attend good schools, not tattered huts and dilapidated buildings. We must make our teaching more innovative and allow businesses of all sizes to thrive.

During his discussions with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, as well as his participation in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation’s (FOCAC) 2024 Summit, he also pledged to strengthen cooperation in infrastructure, trade, finance, energy, green economy, and mining.

Dr. Oche Barnabas, President of NIDO China, praised President Tinubu for his dedication to improving Nigeria-China relations, particularly in trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges.

Currently, more than 70% of available international jobs in China are reserved for native English speakers. In 2016, the local authorities designated South Africa as a native English-speaking country.