Nigerians living in Russia have applauded President Muhammadu Buhari over his patriotism and maturity displayed by visiting South Africa during the xenophobia attack on Nigerians.
This came as President Buhari met with Nigerians living in Sochi, Russia during his visit to the country for the Russia-Africa Submit.
The President of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) in Russia, Chukwujeku Ejike Sam-Fester, applauded Buhari for the display of maturity and patriotism when he visited South Africa. Adding that, the Nigerian community in Russia was proud of him.
Sam-Fester said “We are proud of you for taking that step to reconcile not only Nigeria and South Africa but the entire continent.”
He however, called on the president to extend the 10 years passport validity, BVN and to encourage professional from diaspora to participate in governance.
Nigerian community in Russia
Buhari in his remarks noted that all Nigerians lives was vital to his administration. Adding that, Nigerians in diaspora should not forget their home.
Buhari revealed this through a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu.
Buhari said “The life of every Nigerian, in every part of the world matters.”
The statement reads in part “He told a gathering of students and professionals in Sochi, towards the conclusion of his three-day visit to Russia, where he participated in the Russia-Africa Summit that had about 40 Heads of State and governments participating that,“Our government will protect Nigerians at home, and abroad,.’
President Buhari said the Nigeria Diaspora Commission, headed by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, was established to ensure a forward and backward link for all Nigerians living outside the country by catering for their safety and needs, and providing a platform for many who would like to contribute to the development of the country with their skills, knowledge and resources.
“Don’t forget your home,’’ the President said, advising all Nigerians living in foreign countries to be law-abiding and work very hard to excel in their studies and chosen careers.
Buhari also stressed the need to create jobs to the curb unemployment in the country.
He said “We must create jobs to meet the growing demands in the country, and we are looking at agriculture already.”
Buhari hinted that he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and discussed bilateral relations on areas of mutual interests.
He said ” Yesterday I met with Russian President, Vladimir Putin and we discussed some of the areas of shared interest which includes pushing for diversification of the economy in agriculture and solid minerals. Incidentally, we have a lot in common.
“Russia exports crude oil like Nigeria, and it is the second-largest producer of gas in the world. A lot can be learnt from their journey. We will collaborate in agriculture, oil and gas, and solid minerals exploration.”