THE Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olugbenga Ashiru, said the Federal Government will not hesitate to defend the interest of Nigerians on consular related issues with foreign countries.
Mr. Ashiru gave the assurance on Monday in Abuja following a proposal by the U.K. to introduce a bond of 3,000 pounds (N750, 000) for intending visitors from Nigeria and five other countries. Visa applicants are expected to pay the bond, which will be returned to them if they do not overstay their visa approvals.
Responding to a question at the 2013 Ministerial Platform, Mr. Ashiru said that the U.K. government was yet to officially notify Nigeria on the proposal, scheduled to start in November.
“Really, we have received no official communication from the U.K. government,” he said.
“When we receive communication from them, we will study whatever proposal they are trying to do but I can assure all Nigerians that President Jonathan’s government will defend the interest of Nigerians by whatever means it can.’’
The minister admitted that the biggest challenge facing the present administration’s foreign policy thrust was the welfare of Nigerians abroad. He said Nigerian missions abroad had been directed to pay utmost attention to the needs of Nigerians abroad, particularly the plight of Nigerians in various prisons abroad.
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