The Chinese Consulate General in Lagos, Ms. Yan Yuqing, hosted the Lagos State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Mr. Adedotun Keshinro, in a New Year security conference held at the Consulate’s office on Friday, January 3, 2025.
In a statement signed by SC Oluwaseun Abolurin, FCSS, PJSC, MIS, MPA, ANIPR, Public Relations Officer, he emphasized the importance of the meeting as a strategic step towards strengthening security collaborations between the NSCDC and the Chinese Consulate. The conference aimed at ensuring the safety of Chinese nationals and investments across Lagos State while fostering harmonious relationships between the two nations.
Partnership on Manpower Development and National Security
The conference followed a similar engagement held late last year when the NSCDC Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, visited the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai, on November 4, 2024. That visit highlighted the importance of manpower development and the need for partnerships to enhance professional training programs within the Corps to build a more skilled and effective workforce.
In her remarks, Ms. Yan Yuqing acknowledged the positive role of the NSCDC in protecting critical infrastructure and sought the Corps’ continued support in safeguarding Chinese nationals and investors in Lagos. She stressed the need for a harmonious working relationship to create a conducive environment for economic development and cooperation between the two nations.
NSCDC’s Commitment to Security and Cooperation
Responding, Mr. Adedotun Keshinro reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to protecting critical national assets and infrastructure, particularly at construction sites and other areas of Chinese investment. He assured the Consulate of the command’s readiness to collaborate on enhancing the security of lives and property.
The Lagos State Commandant also appealed to Chinese nationals in Lagos to remain law-abiding and respectful of Nigerian laws, urging them to exhibit qualities of cooperation, unity, and mutual respect. “These values are crucial for fostering harmonious relationships and contributing to the collective growth and development of Lagos State and Nigeria,” he added.
Attendees Highlight Commitment to Collaboration
Key officials from both sides attended the meeting, underscoring its importance. Representing the Chinese Consulate were Liu Kai, the Chinese Police Liaison Officer, and Xie Yijun, Protocol Secretary. On the NSCDC side, notable attendees included Assistant Commandant of Corps Fabian Adoga, the Public Relations Officer Superintendent of Corps Oluwaseun Abolurin, Superintendents of Corps Salako Segun and Ibitoye Paul, and Assistant Superintendent of Corps Olanrewaju Olufemi.
The conference ended with a mutual commitment to strengthening the security framework for Chinese investments and fostering cooperation between the two entities as the new year unfolds.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
