President Muhammadu Buhari urged Nigerians residing in the Republic of Korea on Thursday that they are the “faces of Nigeria” and should strive to create a positive image of the country by their actions, personalities, conducts, and overall demeanor.
As part of his engagements at the conclusion of the First World Bio Summit 2022, the President made this statement during an interactive meeting with the leadership and select members of the Nigerian Community, urging them to always be good representatives of Nigeria.
According to President Buhari, “As law-abiding residents of our wonderful nation, I urge you to emulate the exemplary Nigerian characteristics by coexisting peacefully with your hosts and abiding by the laws of the land. You must always strive to abstain from lawlessness in your daily activities and make it a top priority to inspire other Nigerians to always be of impeccable conduct.”
In addition to reminding them that “Nigeria is and always will be our only country,” he urged them to “always pray and work for the peace and prosperity of our cherished nation.” Let us refrain from any actions that could sow discord among our people. I have no doubt that similar success stories will continue to be duplicated among the Nigerian diaspora population in the Republic of South Korea, as Nigerians in diaspora in many locations throughout the world have achieved incredible success through hard effort, resilience, and resourcefulness.
The Nigerian leader assured them that the Federal Government, through the Embassy, will always strive to protect their interests by ensuring that “none of you is unjustly treated at all times.” He also urged them to “see all Nigerians as brothers and sisters, regardless of tribe or religion, and collectively work to positively project the country’s image.”
Regarding the preparations for the 2023 national elections, which he stated are in an active phase, the President requested their “prayers and support to enable us to transition peacefully to the next administration and deepen the democratic processes in our country,” expressing his delight that “the results of the last four off-season elections have given us great optimism for better conducted and acceptable 2023 elections.”
President Chiemeka Ndukwu, on behalf of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO), South Korea, thanked President Buhari for establishing Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NiDCOM) and “approving a production line for international passports, which we now have here in the Republic of Korea,” adding, “This has alleviated the stress of having to travel to China, Malaysia, or back home for intervention.”
He urged the Federal Government to reach a Bilateral Labour Agreement (BLA) with the Republic of Korea, emphasizing that if signed, it “will not only create job opportunities and increase foreign exchange remittance,” but “will also ensure the transfer of technology and skills, as these trainees will not only return to Nigeria with enough capital to set up factories and businesses that will employ people, but they will also be returning with the skills and technology they aquired abroad.”
Other important NIDO members from the construction, insurance, and private business sectors, as well as male and female students pursuing post-graduate studies in specialized disciplines, also attended the interactive session.
Notable participants included Engr. Dogara Gani, an expert in smart farming through drone technology; Ms. Hussaina Abdullahi, an IT specialist; and Dr. Kalu Ekpeghere, an assistant professor of environmental engineering at Woosong University. The meeting was coordinated by NiDCOM Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 27, 2022