Nigerian Traders Appeal to China for Health, Tech Training, and Trade Fair Access

The Made in China Goods Traders Association of Nigeria has formally approached the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, seeking comprehensive assistance across several critical areas. The association's appeal includes support for cataract treatment initiatives, artificial intelligence training programs, academic scholarships, and opportunities for its members to participate in significant trade exhibitions held in China.

This request was articulated in an official letter, dated Monday, August 17, which was signed by the association's National President, Oluwole Adigun, and directed to the Chinese Consul-General in Lagos, Mrs. Yan Yuqing. The move by the traders’ executive body comes on the heels of their attendance at a Bamboo and Rattan Seminar, which was organized by Chinese authorities.

Mr. Adigun specifically urged the Consulate to either provide direct support or facilitate a medical outreach focused on cataract treatment for indigent residents within its jurisdiction in Lagos. He emphasized that such an initiative would be instrumental in restoring vision to vulnerable individuals who cannot afford surgical procedures, thereby significantly improving their overall quality of life. The association has expressed its readiness to collaborate with the Consulate in identifying suitable beneficiaries and coordinating the medical program.

Furthermore, the traders requested that eligible members of their association be considered for the Chinese Government’s initiative to train 5,000 Nigerians in artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies. They also sought access to undergraduate and master’s degree scholarships offered by the Chinese Government for their members. Adigun highlighted that participation in these training and scholarship schemes would foster skill development and capacity building among traders, enabling them to contribute more effectively to Nigeria’s economic and technological advancement.

Regarding trade, the association requested the Consulate’s help in facilitating its members’ participation in two major international exhibitions in China. These include the China Import and Export Fair, widely known as the Canton Fair, slated for October 15 to November 4, 2026, in Guangzhou, and the China International Import Expo, scheduled for November 5 to 10, 2026, in Shanghai. The association believes that attending these exhibitions would open doors for members from various Nigerian states to forge business connections, explore new markets, and cultivate investment partnerships. They also noted that such engagements could lead to technology transfer and strengthen the bilateral trade relationship between Nigeria and China.

Adigun also conveyed his gratitude to the Consul-General for the Bamboo and Rattan Seminar, acknowledging that the program had broadened the executives' understanding of how bamboo and rattan materials can be utilized for sustainable development and economic empowerment. He affirmed that the knowledge gained would be applied to benefit the association’s members and their communities, simultaneously contributing to stronger Nigeria-China relations.

“We appreciate the Chinese Government of President Xi Jiping and its representatives for their friendship and support for Nigeria,” Adigun stated. He concluded, “We remain committed to cooperation, excellence and mutual respect.” The association represents a diverse group of traders operating across multiple states in Nigeria, engaged in various commercial activities.