China has placed visa restrictions on Nigerians, pending when the Coronavirus ravaging the country is contained.
The Ambassador of the Peoples Republic of China to Nigeria, Zhou Pingjian, said that the Embassy has stopped the issuance of visas to Nigerians.
The Ambassador stated that China is concerned about the health of other nationals visiting China, and has taken the measure to protect them.
“Life comes first. The Chinese government is committed to safeguarding the lives and health of the Chinese people.
“We will in a responsible manner, safeguard the life of every foreign nationals in China, and address their legitimate concerns in a timely manner.
“We will continue to strengthen communication and coordination with the international community, and work hand in hand for the epidemic prevention and control”, he said.
He also advised other countries to adopt a responsible attitude, work together to combat the virus, and avoid overreaction that might result in more negative spillover effects.
He added that a total of 60 Nigerians were living in Wuhan city, where the virus broke out from, adding that, no Nigerian in China has been infected.
Zhou said that the authorities are maintaining regular communication with them, in case of any need for assistance.
“And 21,558 people were suspected of being infected in the Chinese mainland, according to China’s National Health Commission.
“A total number of 361 people have died of the disease, while 475 people have been discharged from hospital after recovery.”
He said that an increase in the number of deaths was recorded, because of the newness of the virus, which had been subjected to research.
He added that Scientists are still working hard to come up with the drug for the treatment of the disease.
According to the Ambassador, China has built a nationwide prevention and control system, with special focus on Wuhan and Hubei.
He said that a 1,000-bed makeshift hospital was built in Wuhan, within nine days, to contain the virus.
Zhou expressed confidence that the country’s economy and trade cooperation with the world, would remain strong.
He expressed appreciation to the Nigerian government, for its show of support to the people of China.