The All Progressives Congress (APC) has defended President Bola Tinubu’s foreign trips, insisting they are yielding significant economic benefits for Nigeria, including massive foreign investment inflows and strengthened global partnerships.
APC National Chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda said in a statement issued on Tuesday that the President’s diplomatic missions are strategic engagements aimed at boosting trade, investment, and economic cooperation.
Critics have described the trips as excessive and wasteful, but Yilwatda stressed that such assessments overlook the broader economic gains.
“Since assuming office in May 2023, President Tinubu has undertaken visits to Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas, engaging key leaders and investors,” the statement read.
The APC chairman highlighted that these missions have already secured over $50 billion in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) commitments, with investments spanning energy, manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, technology, and infrastructure. Yilwatda noted that these commitments are translating into actual capital inflows, job creation, and technology transfers.
He also pointed to diplomatic successes such as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the United Arab Emirates, which aims to strengthen trade, investment, and collaboration in sectors including energy and agriculture.
Yilwatda countered critics, saying, “Those who focus on the cost without recognising the returns are missing the bigger picture. Nigeria’s reform programme under President Tinubu is bold, strategic, and necessary.”
He urged Nigerians to support the government’s diplomatic and economic initiatives, stressing that the President’s reforms and international engagements are designed to deliver tangible improvements in the country’s economy and living standards.
