A Nigerian academic, Dr. Michael Oyenuga, has expressed concern over the negative impact of drug trafficking and visa overstays by some Nigerians on the country's image in India. Dr. Oyenuga, an Associate Professor at Woxsen University in Telangana, India, noted that these issues have led to a stigma being attached to Nigerians in the country. He made these remarks in an interview with The Punch, highlighting the challenges faced by Nigerians living in India.
Dr. Oyenuga, who hails from Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State, Nigeria, has a background in business administration and marketing. He earned his bachelor's degree in business administration from Olabisi Onabanjo University in Ogun State and later pursued a master's degree in digital transformation. His interest in marketing led him to become a member of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria. Before joining Woxsen University, Dr. Oyenuga worked at Xerox for over seven years and later joined a privately owned university in Abuja.
According to Dr. Oyenuga, the issue of drug trafficking and visa overstays is disheartening and has rubbed off on Nigerians who live and work legitimately in India. He noted that out of 13 Africans working at his university, eight are Nigerians, and they have faced challenges due to the stigma attached to their nationality. Dr. Oyenuga recounted an incident where a Nigerian colleague was hesitant to rent an apartment because landlords were reluctant to give apartments to Nigerians due to concerns about drug dealing.
Dr. Oyenuga attributed the problem to the fact that many Nigerians who travel to India do so with different intentions, using their student visas as a means to enter the country. He noted that India has a closed system, with foreigners, including Nigerians, being given one-year visas that need to be renewed annually. This, he believes, can lead to some individuals engaging in unauthorized activities. Dr. Oyenuga emphasized that this issue affects not only Nigerians but also other foreigners living in India.
The academic also highlighted cultural differences between Indian and Nigerian students, which he believes are not insurmountable. He noted that Indian students have a different way of showing respect, particularly towards female students, which can be different from what he was used to in Nigeria. Dr. Oyenuga emphasized the need for mutual respect and understanding between people of different cultural backgrounds.
Dr. Oyenuga's concerns about the image of Nigeria in India come at a time when there have been reports of Nigerians being involved in drug trafficking offenses and visa overstays in the country. The Nigerian government has been working to address these issues, and Dr. Oyenuga's remarks highlight the need for continued efforts to promote a positive image of Nigeria. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work in India and contribute to the country's academic landscape.
In conclusion, Dr. Oyenuga's comments underscore the importance of addressing the issues of drug trafficking and visa overstays to protect the image of Nigeria in India. His experiences and observations highlight the need for greater awareness and cooperation between Nigeria and India to tackle these challenges. By working together, both countries can promote a more positive and respectful relationship.
Key points
- Some Nigerians in India are involved in drug trafficking and visa overstays, damaging the country's reputation.
- India has a closed system, with foreigners given one-year visas that need to be renewed annually.
- Cultural differences between Indian and Nigerian students can be managed with mutual respect and understanding.
