Abuja: The Presidency has emphasized that Nigeria’s participation in the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) is directed towards strategic engagements rather than a trade exhibition. Presidential Spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, clarified that President Bola Tinubu’s delegation is focused on achieving results in key sectors such as power, industry, and agriculture.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this clarification comes in response to social media reports depicting an empty booth labelled ‘Nigeria’ at the TICAD9 venue in Yokohama, Japan. Onanuga characterized the viral narrative as a misinterpretation of Nigeria’s mission at the triennial conference, emphasizing that the country’s role is not that of a trade exhibitor. He explained that while the reports may indicate patriotic concern, they expose a misunderstanding of Nigeria’s true objectives at TICAD9.
Nigeria’s involvement is primarily aimed at establishing bilateral and multilateral partnerships to foster economic growth and development. Onanuga announced that the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) is set to host a targeted investment forum at the conference. Additionally, ministers are conducting bilateral meetings, and President Tinubu will engage with executives from Toyota, CFAO, UN-Habitat, UNDP, and the International Finance Corporation.
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is spearheading discussions on several projects supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), including enhancements to power transmission in Lagos and Ogun states. Other initiatives involve a collaboration between the National Power Training Institute (NAPTIN) and JICA on vocational training, as well as a $190 million renewable energy access initiative. Adelabu is also scheduled to meet with major Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), such as TOSHIBA and HITACHI, to explore potential collaborations in the power sector.
Onanuga further revealed that the Bank of Industry, under the leadership of Dr. Supo Olusi, is engaged in high-level discussions with JICA and other multilateral financial institutions. He affirmed that Nigeria is well-represented at TICAD9 and is actively participating in all critical diplomatic and investment negotiations.