Cape Town: The Federal Government will do all in its power to protect its citizens anywhere in the world, Vice President Namadi Sambo has said. Speaking at an interactive session with Nigerians in Cape Town, South Africa, the Vice President said: "Nigeria will go to any length to protect good Nigerians, therefore you have the responsibility of being good citizens. We expect a lot from you - to be good ambassadors of our country in your host country."

Sambo commended the efforts of the Nigerian Security Agencies in tackling the menace of Boko Haram and other security challenges in the country, lauding their ability to quickly learn the ropes of tackling terrorism, which he noted was new to Nigeria.

The Vice President also said the Federal Government was working hard to put in place the necessary infrastructure that will attract investment needed for the development the country, noting that Nigeria currently imports goods worth over N500billion from South Africa.

Sambo, who is in South Africa for the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission meeting, added that the Federal Government, as part of its efforts to address infrastructural deficit, is building ten thermal power stations across the country.

Responding to questions on the possibility of diaspora voting come 2015, Sambo said the government was working it out with the National Assembly to ensure that it is achieved.

He urged his audience to explore the various investment opportunities that abound in the country, especially in the power, agriculture, solid minerals, tourism and transport sectors.

Earlier in a welcome address at the event, the President of the Nigerian Association in Western Cape, Azu Okpoaraugo commended the efforts of the foreign affairs minister for his swift response during the diplomatic row between South Africa and Nigeria, stating that "Nigerians will no longer be kicked around by the host country without being questioned".

He however informed the V.P of the challenges faced by Nigerians living in the province, who have to travel all the way to Johannesburg to access consular services. "We will like to appeal to the Federal Government to consider opening a consular office in Cape Town to facilitate all consular services" he appealed.

Present at the event were the governors of Rivers and Kebbi states, Rotimi Ameachi and Saidu Dakingari, Ministers of Trade and Investment Olusegun Aganga, Defence, Haliru Mohammed, Mines and Steel, Musa Sanda, and Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Olugbenga Ashiru, as well as government officials from relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDA).