By Paul Joseph
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has stated that President Bola Tinubu’s international trips are generating significant economic advantages for Nigeria, pointing to substantial investment inflows and strengthened global partnerships as clear indications that the administration’s foreign engagements are effective.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, on Tuesday, Yilwatda noted that President Tinubu’s foreign visits are strategic efforts that have enhanced Nigeria’s global partnerships and attracted considerable foreign investment.
Recently, President Tinubu’s frequent international travels have faced strong criticism from opposition leaders.
While detractors label these trips as extravagant, the Presidency has consistently argued that they are vital for repositioning Nigeria on the global stage.
In defense of the President, the APC National Chairman remarked that such criticisms miss the broader perspective, emphasizing that the advantages of President Tinubu’s international activities far exceed any associated costs.
Yilwatda remarked, “The President’s interactions with key global partners highlight his steadfast dedication to promoting Nigeria’s economic interests.
These visits have successfully repositioned our nation internationally, yielding concrete benefits that will foster long-term prosperity.
“Since taking office in May 2023, President Tinubu has embarked on a series of international trips to crucial regions, including Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas, engaging with leaders and investors from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, China, India, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Brazil, and others.
“These missions have concentrated on economic collaboration, trade growth, and strengthened strategic partnerships.
The National Chairman emphasized that Nigeria has already secured over $50 billion in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) commitments as a result of President Tinubu’s diplomatic efforts, with major corporations and sectors pledging investments in areas like energy, manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, technology, and infrastructure.”
He noted that these commitments are not just theoretical but result in real capital inflows, job creation, and technology transfers that enhance the economy.
The APC National Chairman praised President Tinubu for securing agreements that prioritize Nigeria’s growth and sustainable development.
Yilwatda also pointed out recent diplomatic achievements, including the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the United Arab Emirates, designed to boost trade, investment, and collaboration in vital sectors such as energy and agriculture.
In response to critics who have described the President’s foreign trips as “excessive” or unnecessary, Professor Yilwatda stated that these opinions are shortsighted.
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