President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has highlighted the expected benefits of Nigeria’s participation in the ongoing ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), taking place in Yokohama, Japan.

Tinubu, who arrived in Tokyo earlier in the week, joined other heads of government and global leaders at the opening ceremony of the three-day conference holding at the Pacifico Yokohama International Conference Centre.

The summit, scheduled for August 20–22, focuses on Africa’s economic transformation, private investment, and innovation.

In a statement released on his official social media platforms, the President said Nigeria’s engagement at TICAD9 was anchored on unlocking more than $1 billion in trade and investment, driving green innovation, boosting industrial growth, and expanding opportunities for young people.

“The summit provides a launchpad for lasting development and global partnerships, anchored on technology, talent, and trust,” Tinubu said, adding that Nigeria intends to position itself as the gateway to West Africa’s vast market.

The President expressed optimism that Nigeria’s active participation would consolidate its leadership role in Africa and strengthen collaboration with Japan and other global partners.