As President Bola Tinubu embarks on a visit to China for the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), former Coordinator of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDO) in Guangdong Province, China, Mr. Festus Mbisiogu, has called on the President to focus on enhancing trade, investment, and the welfare of Nigerians living in China during his discussions.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring that both nations fully benefit from their bilateral relations.
Mbisiogu highlighted several key areas that warrant the President’s attention, including education, employment opportunities, and the challenges faced by Nigerians detained on suspicion of various offences in China.
In a briefing held in Lagos prior to the President’s visit, Mbisiogu stressed the significance of these issues given China’s strategic role in Nigeria’s infrastructure development and economic growth.
He also praised the Chinese government for creating a supportive environment for Nigerians conducting business in China. However, as a member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of NIDO in China, Mbisiogu urged President Tinubu to advocate for the employment of Nigerian graduates in China, allowing them to remain in the country after completing their studies.
Additionally, he pointed out that, unlike Kenya and South Africa, Nigeria is not recognized as an English-speaking nation in China, a situation that he believes should be addressed to further strengthen bilateral ties.
He said:”Our President’s visit to China is coming at a very auspicious time given the efforts of the Tinubu administration in fixing the economy. However, as stakeholder, may I bring some key areas the President should also consider in his engagements during the visit. A lot of Nigerians are schooling in China and some wish to remain and work in the country after their studies. So, they want the President to help out this area so they can realise their dreams in the country. Another issue of note is that countries like South Africa and Kenya are categorized as English-speaking countries while Nigeria didn’t make that category. This hasn’t helped Nigerians in any way, so our people are pleading that Nigeria is included in its rightful place. We are an English-speaking nation.
“Another issue that Nigerians in China need the President’s intervention is the aspect of Nigerians who are detained for several offences in China.
