FG Vows to Safeguard Nigerian Investments in Angola, Backs Auto Parts Dealers

The Federal Government has assured Nigerian auto spare parts dealers operating in Angola that their investments will receive greater protection, as Abuja moves to strengthen economic ties with the southern African country.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, gave the assurance during a visit to the Cidade De Motores (City of Engines) market in Golf 2, Luanda, where Nigerian auto parts dealers have established a major trading hub.

The minister inspected the facility on the sidelines of the 21st Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed satisfaction with the scale of investment at the market, describing it as evidence of the entrepreneurial capacity of Nigerians living and doing business outside the country.

She said the Federal Government would not allow legitimate Nigerian investments abroad to be undermined by disputes, questionable claims or other challenges.

“We are very proud of you, having seen the worth of the enormous investment you have put on ground,” she said.

“We do not want a situation where people will invest and later some phony stories would be told about their investment.”

Issue to feature in Nigeria-Angola talks

The minister disclosed that the protection of Nigerian-owned businesses would be given priority during the next Nigeria-Angola Joint Commission.

According to her, the Federal Government would use bilateral engagements with the Angolan government to address issues affecting Nigerian entrepreneurs and create a more secure environment for their investments.

She also conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians residing and working abroad, saying the administration was taking steps to protect citizens who encounter difficulties in foreign countries.

The minister, however, urged the traders to remain law-abiding and conduct their businesses in a manner that would enhance Nigeria’s reputation.

She also called for unity among the traders and warned against ethnic divisions in the management of the market.

“There should be no room for tribalism,” she cautioned.

Market emerged after roadside trading ban

The President of the United Auto Parts Dealers Association, Chuks Ukachi, told the minister that the market was established following a decision by Angolan authorities to stop Nigerian traders from operating along the roadside.

The restriction, he said, left many Nigerian auto parts dealers without business for approximately two years.

According to Ukachi, the affected traders subsequently came together to establish the dedicated facility as a more organised and sustainable business environment.

He said the market was deliberately designed to accommodate both Nigerians and Angolans interested in the auto parts trade.

“This is an open market; it is open for every Nigerian. In fact, it is for all of us,” Ukachi said.

He added that the traders were determined to use the facility not only as a commercial centre but also as a platform for projecting a positive image of Nigeria in Angola.

The association consequently appealed to the Federal Government to assist in securing the market and ensuring the protection of the substantial investments made by Nigerian entrepreneurs.

The government’s intervention comes as Nigerian businesses continue to establish a presence across African markets, highlighting the growing need for stronger diplomatic and institutional mechanisms to protect Nigerian-owned investments and support citizens engaged in legitimate economic activities abroad.