President Muhammadu Buhari has promised to stretch government’s reach and capacity in protecting all Nigerians, not minding the distance.
President Buhari who made the promise in Sochi, Russia, while addressing a gathering of students and professionals towards the conclusion of his three-day visit to Russia, where he participated in the Russia-Africa Summit, which had about 40 Heads of State and governments.
“The life of every Nigerian, in every part of the world matters. Our government will protect Nigerians at home, and abroad,” the president said in a statement issued yesterday by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity Garba Shehu.
He 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.
Buhari, who told his audience not to forget their home, advised all Nigerians living in foreign countries to be law-abiding and work very hard to excel in their studies and chosen careers.
President Buhari said the government has introduced Social Investment Programmes to directly impact the lives of poor people.
“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,’’ he said.
Prof. Steve Davies Ugbah, the Nigerian Ambassador to Russia, said the President had restored the pride of all Nigerians by consistently meeting with citizens in countries he visited.
The President of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) in Russia, Chukwujeku Ejike Sam-Fester, in his remarks, said President Buhari demonstrated a high sense of maturity and patriotism by visiting South Africa on October 3rd, 2019, to discuss issues relating to attacks on foreigners, including Nigerians, in the country.
“We are proud of you for taking that step to reconcile not only Nigeria and South Africa, but the entire continent,” he said.
Sam-Fester urged the government to extend gestures like the National Identity Card, BVN, 10-year validity passport and encourage more participation in governance by inviting professionals in foreign countries to provide services.
A Nigerian female student in Russia, Kadija Mohammed Babanzara, hailed the president for consistency in the payment of bursaries to students.
“Since you came into power, our bursaries are paid in full and timely. We are grateful,” she said.
President Buhari returned to Abuja yesterday.
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