4m hard-working Nigerians in Cameroon-Ambassador

Nigeria’s High Commissioner in Cameroon, Ambassador Hadisa Mustapha has said there are four million hardworking Nigerians in the country.

She made the disclosure onboard Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) OKPABANA at the weekend in Douala, during a dinner with Nigeria’s contingent to exercise Obangame/Saharan Express.

Describing as untrue the allegation of hostilities against Nigerians in Cameroon, Mustapha stated that the relationship between both countries have improved significantly since the conclusion of the rivalry over Bakassi Peninsula.

“The seeming hostility against Nigerians in Cameroon are mere allegations. There are four million hardworking Nigerians here. We have professional Nigerians, business people and people in the car, spareparts businesses. We also have professional in the international organisations, teachers and clergymen.

“As an Embassy, we get report on all issues concerning Nigerians and we have three missions here – two consulate and the High Commission.

“I want to say that there is a lot of improvement in the situation with Nigerians. This started from the end of Bakassi. Definitely, there are a few issues and most have to do with immigration status of Nigerians.

“I do not want to say it is trend that is so rampant or that it is an issue against Nigerians per se. Every country has its own policies and security measures. With the security challenges around, every country is trying to do its best to curb crime and criminality.

“As a mission, we are very much in touch with our community. We meet with them often and whenever they bring their problems, we take the matter to the authorities and they listen to us,” she said.

Mustapha commended the Navy for its participation in the exercise, noting that aside showcasing its military might, the ship has promoted maritime diplomacy.

“This is the second Obangame Express I have witnessed. It is always nice to see our ship in harbour of a foreign country flying our flag. The exercise itself is very important for our military, particularly the navy to show we have full control of our maritime domain.

“It is also a very good way of promoting maritime diplomacy. So, we are very happy and proud to have NNS OKPABANA here,” she said.