Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Chief Olusegun Runsewe, Director-General, National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) bagged Chinese awards of excellence.
This was announced by Dr Eric Ni, Chairman, Chinese Industrial and Commercial Enterprises Association during the Chinese 2022 Mid-Autumn Festival and National day.
Ni said; “The former President Obasanjo was given an award of excellence for his selfless sacrifices in promoting businesses between Nigeria and China, his efforts in creating a conducive business environment for the Chinese community were highly appreciated.
In his remarks, Runsewe said, “For his selfless commitment to the promotion of arts and culture between Nigeria and China, the Chinese community has enjoyed seamless cultural exchange programmes due to the support enjoyed by NCAC.
Chief Ikechukwu lkoh, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, also got an award of honour for his selfless commitment to the promotion of businesses in science, technology, and innovation between Nigeria and China.
Brig.-Gen. Musa Sadiq, Commander, 81 division, Garrison also bagged a commitment award for his selfless commitment to defending and protecting lives and communities within the Nigerian community.
Obasanjo, represented by his wife, Chief Bola Obasanjo, appreciated the award, commending the Chinese community for bringing transformation to the country in diverse fields.
She said; “You brought transformation to the country, the Chinese community has helped our youths in providing employment opportunities, we appreciate you all.
Runsewe also appreciated the gesture extended to him as he assured the Chinese community of more years of seamless collaborations.
He said; The Chinese community’s assistance was seriously coveted to ensure Nigeria took the rightful position in Africa to improve on local production and technological advancement.
”We want the Chinese community to visit Nigerians more for the purpose of investing and as tourists.
”We want to achieve a situation whereby the strength of China in Asia could be compared to that of Nigeria in Africa.
”I want to especially appreciate the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun, for encouraging his people to visit Nigeria and invest; we are known as hospitable, friendly, and accommodating individuals.
”I assure you of the commitment of NCAC to serve as a catalyst for consolidating and sustaining China-Nigeria bilateral business, cultural and diplomatic relations for more years to come.”
(NAN)
