The President of the Nigerian Community in Turkey, Prince Emre Magboh, has appealed to the Turkish Government to reconsider its stance on issuing resident permits to Africans.
This plea comes amidst concerns about dwindling business activities and the promotion of Turkish goods in Africa due to recent permit denials and deportations.
Addressing delegates at the Turkey Africa Exporter Platform (TURCAF) meeting in Istanbul, Prince Emre stated the crucial role that Africans with resident permits play in facilitating trade between Turkey and African nations. He emphasized that many Nigerians in Turkey are actively engaged in business, primarily centered around buying Turkish goods and providing logistical services to African customers.
Prince Emre underscored Nigeria’s substantial market potential for Turkish goods, with over 200 million people eager for quality products. However, he lamented that recent permit denials have disrupted business operations, leaving many Africans unable to continue promoting Turkish goods in their home countries.
The NICOT president urged Turkish authorities to reconsider their stance on resident permits, emphasizing the detrimental impact on businesses caused by increased denials. He emphasized the importance of maintaining resident permits to sustain business activities and foster economic growth between Turkey and Africa.
Highlighting Africa’s immense investment opportunities and abundant natural resources, Prince Emre dispelled rumors of insecurity on the continent. He encouraged investors to explore Africa as the next frontier for industrialization, dismissing concerns as politically motivated.