By Dr. Omenazu Jackson
Editorial Introduction:
In this reflective piece, Dr. Omenazu Jackson, Chancellor of the International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights, examines Senator Ned Nwoko’s evolving role in Nigeria’s legislative diplomacy. Drawing from his recent engagement with the Chinese Ambassador in Abuja, Dr. Jackson explores how Nwoko personifies a new kind of parliamentary statesmanship that bridges cultures, inspires cooperation, and redefines Africa’s image through people-to-people diplomacy.
Senator Ned Nwoko Draws Parallels Between China and Nigeria in Resilience and Enterprise
In the evolving landscape of Nigeria’s parliamentary diplomacy, Senator Ned Munir Nwoko stands as a bridge-builder — a legislative ambassador whose engagements transcend politics and reflect a vision rooted in mutual respect, people-to-people relations, and global cooperation.
Recently, Senator Nwoko, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Laila Charani Nwoko, Chief Executive Officer of MNS Travel & Tours Ltd, paid a courtesy visit to the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Abuja. During the visit, he was received by the Chinese Ambassador, His Excellency YU Dunhai.
In his remarks, Senator Nwoko drew profound parallels between the people of China and Nigeria, describing both as resilient, enterprising, and remarkably adaptive societies.
“The Chinese are everywhere, even in Delta State,” Senator Nwoko noted. “They have an incredible ability to integrate and excel wherever they go. That spirit is similar to what we have among Nigerians, especially the Igbo, who are industrious, resilient, and willing to explore opportunities anywhere.”
This statement goes beyond diplomatic niceties; it captures a philosophical and socio-economic truth about human enterprise and cultural tenacity. The Chinese, much like Nigerians, embody a civilization that thrives on determination and creativity — virtues that fuel transformation and nation-building.
Ambassador Dunhai, in his response, acknowledged these shared values, emphasizing that both nations possess an indomitable spirit of hard work and perseverance, which remains the foundation of enduring partnerships between China and Nigeria.
What is striking about Senator Nwoko’s engagements is not merely the diplomatic symbolism but the legislative philosophy behind them. As the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, he has continually championed causes that redefine justice, historical redress, and global cooperation. His advocacy has opened new conversations on how legislative diplomacy can serve as a tool for rebuilding Africa’s moral and economic confidence in the international community.
Senator Nwoko represents a new genre of Nigerian legislators who understand that diplomacy is no longer the exclusive preserve of the executive arm of government — it is a shared responsibility, one that must include lawmakers committed to justice, reparations, and the reinvention of Africa’s place in the world.
Through engagements like this, he bridges not just nations, but peoples — reminding us that diplomacy in its truest sense is the art of human understanding. His ability to harmonize international friendship with legislative advocacy makes him not only a senator of Nigeria but a legislative ambassador of the African renaissance.
In a world increasingly fractured by political ego and economic inequality, Senator Nwoko’s vision reflects what leadership ought to be: the restoration of human dignity through constructive dialogue, moral courage, and global partnership.
By Dr. Omenazu Jackson
Chancellor, International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights
