Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerians living abroad to support the country’s growth by working closely with agencies at home to promote innovation. She made the call during a meeting with Nigerians in Qatar, held on the sidelines of the World Innovation Summit for Education in Doha. The gathering created an opportunity for direct interaction with citizens who are representing the country through various start ups and innovative solutions showcased at the summit.
Addressing the group, Senator Tinubu highlighted the role of education in shaping a brighter future for children. She said, “The best you can give children is the ability to dream on their own. Education gives that ability.” She explained that as Nigeria continues to regain its place and dignity among nations, those in the diaspora have an important role in contributing to national development. She encouraged them to see themselves as partners in rebuilding the country. “The Nigeria that gave us this opportunity to be what we are today, our youth also deserve it,” she stated.
The First Lady expressed appreciation for their efforts and encouraged them to stay optimistic about the nation’s future. She said, “We need to hold on to the optimism that our dear nation will be great again. See all the wonderful things you are all doing. I thank you all for making Nigeria proud.” She added that their experiences and achievements should inspire young people back home to think differently and embrace new possibilities. “You have to do more; talk to the students, the youth at home. They must start to have a mindset change and see the greater picture,” she said.
To help strengthen the link between innovators abroad and opportunities in Nigeria, Senator Tinubu referred some of the participants to the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, who was present at the meeting. She noted that deeper collaboration between start ups within and outside the country and government agencies could lead to meaningful progress for Nigerians.
While in Doha, the First Lady also received members of the Committee of Pro Chancellors of Federal Universities of Nigeria, who were attending the Education Beyond Borders Conference.
