Social media commentator VeryDarkMan has weighed in on the recent protest by some Igbo traders in Lagos markets over the presence of Chinese traders and their impact on local businesses.
The traders reportedly called for Chinese traders to leave the market, arguing that their ability to sell goods at cheaper prices was negatively affecting their businesses.
Reacting to the development, VeryDarkMan questioned the logic behind the protest, arguing that Nigerian traders should focus more on improving local production and manufacturing rather than demanding that foreign competitors leave.
He maintained that the global business environment has evolved, but many Nigerian entrepreneurs have failed to move at the same pace.
In his words:
“Igbo Traders In Lagos Markets Were Protesting That Chinese Traders Must Leave The Market Because They Sell Cheaper And Are Spoiling Their Businesses, Chanting, ‘Chinese Must Go.’ What These Guys Don’t Understand Is That The World Has Advanced, But They Didn’t Advance With It, And That’s Why They Have Been Left Behind.
“You’re Saying China Must Leave The Market, But What If China Says They’re No Longer Giving Nigerians Visas To Travel There And Meet Manufacturers? Your Market Won’t Have a Market Because Nigeria Don’t Produce And Manufacture Anything. We Only Import In 2026.”
VeryDarkMan’s comments have sparked discussion about Nigeria’s dependence on imported goods and the challenges facing local manufacturers and traders.