Nigerian traders seek China’s support for cataract outreach, AI training

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The Made in China Goods Traders Association of Nigeria has appealed to the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos for support for cataract treatment, artificial intelligence training, scholarships and participation in major trade exhibitions in China.

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The association made the request in a letter signed by its National President, Oluwole Adigun, and addressed to the Chinese Consul-General in Lagos, Mrs Yan Yuqing.

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The association in the letter dated Monday, August 17, said the request followed its executives’ participation in a Bamboo and Rattan Seminar organised by Chinese authorities.

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Adigun appealed to the Consulate, “to support or facilitate a cataract treatment outreach for less privileged residents within its area of jurisdiction in Lagos”.

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According to him, the initiative would restore sight to vulnerable people who could not afford surgery and improve their quality of life.

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He said the association was prepared to work with the Consulate to identify beneficiaries and coordinate the medical outreach.

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The traders also requested that qualified members of the association “be considered for the Chinese Government’s plan to train 5,000 Nigerians in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies”.

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The association further appealed for undergraduate and master’s degree scholarships offered by the Chinese Government for its members.

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Adigun said access to the training and scholarship programmes would help build skills and capacity among traders, enabling them to contribute more effectively to Nigeria’s economic and technological development.

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On trade, the association sought the Consulate’s assistance in facilitating members’ participation in two major international exhibitions in China.

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It listed the China Import and Export Fair, popularly known as the Canton Fair, scheduled for October 15 to November 4, 2026, in Guangzhou, and the China International Import Expo, scheduled for November 5 to 10, 2026, in Shanghai.

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The association said participation in the exhibitions would provide members from different states with opportunities to establish business contacts, explore new markets and develop investment partnerships.

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It added that such engagements could promote technology transfer and strengthen bilateral trade between Nigeria and China.

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Adigun also expressed appreciation to the Consul-General for the Bamboo and Rattan Seminar, saying the programme had broadened the executives’ understanding of the use of the materials for sustainable development and economic empowerment.

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He said the knowledge acquired would be applied to benefit members of the association and their communities while contributing to stronger Nigeria-China relations.

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“We appreciate the Chinese Government of President Xi Jiping and its representatives for their friendship and support for Nigeria.

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“We remain committed to cooperation, excellence and mutual respect,” Adigun said.

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The association represents traders operating across several states in Nigeria who engage in various trading activities.

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