Tinubu back to Abuja after productive diplomatic missions to Brazil, Japan

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu returned early hours of Thursday to Abuja following successful state visits to Brazil and Japan aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s international partnerships and boosting economic growth.

Landing at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport around 1:20 a.m., he was warmly welcomed by a high-profile delegation including Governors Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Uba Sani (Kaduna), who were in his delegation to Brazil, Hope Uzodinma (Imo), and AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara).

Key federal officials such as Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin (who were also in his deltto Brazil), Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and several ministers were also present to receive him.

President Tinubu’s three-day visit to Brazil was highlighted by the signing of five crucial Memoranda of Understanding covering aviation, trade, science, diplomacy, and finance. A landmark agreement enabled direct flights between Lagos and São Paulo, to be operated by Air Peace, opening new avenues for commerce and connectivity.

At a joint press briefing in Brasília, Tinubu urged Petrobras, Brazil’s state oil company, to return to Nigeria’s energy sector after a five-year hiatus. He expressed optimism about leveraging Nigeria’s extensive gas reserves through renewed partnerships, receiving assurances from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

The agreements also fostered deeper collaboration on political consultations, scientific research, and agricultural financing, involving Nigeria’s Bank of Agriculture and Brazil’s National Bank for Economic and Social Development.

President Tinubu highlighted his administration’s ongoing reforms to promote economic stability, investor protection, and market innovation, appealing directly to Brazilian investors.

Addressing Nigerians in Brazil, Tinubu emphasized the role of the diaspora in nation-building, pledging a future focused on technology-driven development and food security to propel Nigeria to the forefront of African progress.

Prior to Brazil, President Tinubu took part in the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), engaging Japanese leaders to bolster investment in infrastructure, technology, and renewable energy. He also met with the Nigerian community in Japan, urging them to act as constructive ambassadors for Nigeria.