On Friday, 6th September, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu concluded his official visit to China, marking an important step in strengthening the bilateral ties between Nigeria and China. Following his productive engagements in China, the President is scheduled to head to London, United Kingdom, via Dubai.
Before departing, President Tinubu made time for a significant interaction with the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO China) and the Nigerian community, which took place at the prestigious China World Hotel in Beijing. This meeting was the President’s final official engagement in China, and it was an opportunity for Nigerians living abroad to have direct communication with the country’s leadership.
Highlights of the Meeting
During the meeting, President Tinubu reassured Nigerians in China of his administration’s commitment to delivering good governance and implementing policies that would eventually lead to economic prosperity. He recognized the current challenges facing Nigerians, including rising petrol prices, but emphasized that these hardships are necessary sacrifices for a brighter and more sustainable future.
He promised that his administration would replicate the good things China has achieved for its people back home in Nigeria. The President’s economic reforms, while currently demanding patience and understanding, are designed to lay a strong foundation for:
– Good Roads: Infrastructure that supports economic growth and makes transportation easier.
– Constant Electricity: Reliable power supply that fuels industries, innovation, and education.
– Improved Schools: Investment in education to create a skilled workforce and knowledgeable society.
– Other Essential Amenities: Adequate healthcare, clean water, and public services.
President Tinubu specifically mentioned the fuel price increase as one of the difficult but necessary steps toward long-term economic recovery. By removing fuel subsidies, the government can allocate resources to more pressing developmental projects that will benefit the majority of Nigerians.
Reaffirmation of Commitment to the Nigerian Diaspora
The President’s visit wasn’t just about policies; it was about connection. His Excellency reaffirmed the importance of Nigerians living abroad, recognizing the contributions of the diaspora to Nigeria’s economy through remittances, investments, and the sharing of expertise. He assured the Nigerian community in China that they are integral to Nigeria’s progress and development, both through their personal success and their ability to strengthen international partnerships.
As Nigerians living in China, we deeply appreciate President Tinubu for taking time out of his incredibly busy schedule to meet with us. This visit reassures us of his dedication to not only improving Nigeria’s standing globally but also supporting Nigerians across the world. His vision to drive Nigeria forward by building strong global partnerships and creating more opportunities for Nigerians abroad is one we fully support.
Moving Forward Together
The meeting in Beijing left many with a sense of hope and renewed faith in Nigeria’s future. President Tinubu’s recognition of the challenges faced by Nigerians, coupled with his strategic policies to address them, signals his administration’s resolve to lead the country toward progress.
As members of NIDO China, we stand united with President Tinubu in his efforts to strengthen our nation and improve the lives of all Nigerians, both at home and abroad. His visit was not only a sign of commitment but a clear indication that his government is listening, engaging, and eager to collaborate with Nigerians everywhere.
Our Expectations as Nigerians in the Diaspora
As Nigerians living in China, we have specific expectations that we hope the Tinubu administration will address in the coming months and years. These include:
1. Improved Consular Services: We hope for more efficient passport renewal and issuance services and overall better consular support for Nigerians living in China.
2. Stronger Diplomatic Relations: We wish to see enhanced collaboration between the Nigerian community and the Nigerian Embassy in China, fostering a cordial and productive relationship.
3. Currency Swap Between Naira and RMB: A currency swap between the Nigerian Naira and Chinese RMB could ease trade, boost economic cooperation, and make remittances more accessible.
4. Ease of Doing Business: Creating an environment where Nigerians can easily engage in trade, import, and export activities between China and Nigeria would contribute to the economy’s growth.
5. Recognizing Nigerians as Native English Speakers: Presently, over 70% of available jobs in China are reserved for native English speakers. In 2016, South Africa was officially recognized as a native English-speaking country by local authorities. Nigeria, with English as its official language, deserves similar recognition. The fact that we have a Nobel laureate, Wole Soyinka, who was awarded the 1986 Nobel Prize in Literature, further reinforces this claim. We believe this recognition will allow more Nigerians to study and work in China, increasing diaspora remittances and contributing to Nigeria’s economy.
6. Government-Sponsored Scholarships: We would like to see an increase in scholarships for Nigerian students who want to study in China, helping to build a generation of globally competitive individuals.
7. Support for Nigerians Facing Challenges: We also expect more government intervention and support for Nigerians, particularly young individuals who may be unjustly imprisoned or facing other challenges in China.
We look forward to President Tinubu’s continued efforts to implement the 4D Foreign Policy, which prioritizes Demography, Diaspora, Development, and Democracy. As Nigeria embarks on this new chapter, we are hopeful that the Tinubu administration will not only navigate our country through these tough times but also build a Nigeria we can all be proud of.
Conclusion
President Tinubu’s visit to China and his engagement with the Nigerian community were monumental. As Nigerians in Diaspora, China Chapter, we are inspired by his leadership and vision for the country. We are confident that under his administration, Nigeria will continue to grow and flourish on the global stage, with the active participation of its people both at home and abroad.
Together, we stand in support of President Tinubu’s mission to create a better future for all Nigerians.