The Made in China Goods Traders Association of Nigeria has called on the Chinese Consulate in Lagos to support initiatives covering healthcare, education, artificial intelligence and international trade.
The association made the appeal in a letter signed by its National President, Oluwole Adigun, and addressed to the Chinese Consul-General in Lagos, Mrs Yan Yuqing.
The request followed the association executives’ participation in a Bamboo and Rattan Seminar organised by Chinese authorities. The traders said the programme provided useful knowledge on how bamboo and rattan could support sustainable development, business growth and economic empowerment.
One of the major requests from the association was support for a cataract treatment programme for less privileged residents in Lagos.
Adigun said the proposed medical outreach could help restore the sight of vulnerable people who may be unable to afford cataract surgery. He added that the association was ready to work with the Chinese Consulate to identify beneficiaries and coordinate the programme.
Beyond healthcare, the traders also asked for opportunities to participate in China-backed training programmes in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.
The association specifically requested that qualified members be considered for the Chinese Government’s plan to train 5,000 Nigerians in AI and related technologies.
According to the association, such training would give traders new skills and help them adapt to the changing business environment. It said stronger digital knowledge could also enable members to contribute more effectively to Nigeria’s economic and technological development.
The group also appealed for undergraduate and master’s degree scholarships offered by the Chinese Government. It believes access to higher education would improve the knowledge and professional capacity of its members.
Trade expansion was another key part of the request.
The association asked the Chinese Consulate to help its members participate in two major international exhibitions in China — the China Import and Export Fair, popularly known as the Canton Fair, in Guangzhou from October 15 to November 4, 2026, and the China International Import Expo in Shanghai from November 5 to 10, 2026.
The traders said attending the exhibitions would allow members from different parts of Nigeria to meet international businesses, discover new markets and explore investment opportunities.
They also believe such interactions could encourage technology transfer, create stronger business partnerships and deepen trade relations between Nigeria and China.
Adigun expressed appreciation to the Chinese Government and its representatives for supporting Nigeria-China relations. He said the knowledge gained from the Bamboo and Rattan Seminar would be shared with members and communities.
The association said it remains committed to cooperation and mutually beneficial partnerships as Nigerian traders seek greater access to international markets, education, technology and business opportunities.
