By James Sunday, FCAI, MNIIA
Mr. President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his engagement with Nigerians in Brazil, encouraged citizens to look inward in order to restore Nigeria to the level of development it once shared with Brazil years ago. This retrospection is also a clarion call to government appointees at home to sustain the hope that Nigeria can indeed be better, through the patriotic efforts of all and sundry.
As a scholar, my take is that appointees were given clear mandates to deliver a turnaround that will inspire confidence in Nigerians in the Diaspora and attract their investments back into the system.
A major takeaway from Mr. President’s message is his admission that he, too, is challenged by the development gap between Nigeria and Brazil compared to years past. Today, that gap is glaring, and it calls for a rethinking and renewed hope for Nigerians both at home and abroad.
Every Nigerian, including government appointees, must see themselves as key contributors in this patriotic call and work diligently to sustain their mandates. This is the surest way to strengthen the system, attract our Diaspora back home, and discourage the “Japa Syndrome” currently embraced by many youths.
All hands must indeed be on deck to keep the Nigerian flag flying, by supporting the government, exposing societal ills that bring disrepute, and promoting development that inspires public confidence.
The Brazil State Visit also opened new business opportunities in the aviation sector. Air Peace Airline took the lead by purchasing Bombardier aircraft from Brazil, establishing business relationships, and successfully operating the first direct flight between Brazil and Nigeria. This milestone demonstrates how committed citizens, like Air Peace CEO Mr. Allen Onyema, contribute meaningfully to bridging the development gap. He deserves commendation, and others are encouraged to follow suit, investing in Nigeria rather than exporting our commonwealth abroad to strengthen foreign economies.
This is indeed another plus for Mr. President in advancing Brazil— Nigeria relationship.