Tinubu targets $1bn trade and investment at TICAD9

…pledges to position Nigeria as West Africa’s hub

By Kunle Sanni –

President Bola Tinubu says Nigeria is pursuing a bold $1 billion trade and investment target at the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), holding in Yokohama, Japan.

Leading a high-powered delegation, Tinubu said the visit is focused on driving green innovation, industrial growth, and global partnerships to reinforce Nigeria’s role as West Africa’s economic gateway.

In a post on his verified X handle, @officialABAT, the president emphasized that Nigeria’s participation is “strategic and deliberate, rather than ceremonial.”

“At #TICAD9, themed ‘Co-create innovative solutions with Africa,’ Nigeria comes with clarity of purpose,” Tinubu wrote. “Our participation aims to unlock over $1 billion in trade and investment, advance green innovation, expand opportunities for youth, and position Nigeria as West Africa’s hub.”

Describing TICAD9 as a platform for long-term collaboration “anchored on technology, trust, and talent,” the president reaffirmed Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa’s development.

“Nigeria will lead, and Africa will rise,” he declared.

The conference, jointly organized by Japan and international partners, brings together African leaders, investors, and multilateral institutions to strengthen cross-continental partnerships and drive sustainable growth.

Tinubu’s presence marks his first official visit to Japan since taking office in May 2023, underscoring his administration’s push to attract significant private sector investment and deepen Japan-Africa economic relations.