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

The Made in China Goods Traders Association of Nigeria has appealed to the Consulate General of China in Lagos for support for cataract treatment, Artificial Intelligence (AI) training, scholarships and participation in major trade exhibitions.

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

Adigun said the request followed the association executives’ participation in a Bamboo and Rattan Seminar organised by Chinese authorities.

He appealed to the consulate to support or facilitate a cataract treatment outreach for less privileged residents within its area of jurisdiction in Lagos.

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

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

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

Adigun said access to the training and scholarship opportunities would help improve the skills and capacity of traders and enable them to contribute more effectively to Nigeria’s economic and technological development.

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

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

They include the China Import and Export Fair, popularly known as the Canton Fair, scheduled for Oct. 15 to Nov. 4, 2026, in Guangzhou, and the China International Import Expo, scheduled for Nov. 5 to Nov. 10 in Shanghai.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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