From Chinwe Ochu in Abuja
Contrary to speculations by Nigerians that the first terrestrial satellite the country launched into the orbit, SAT-1, has been irreversibly damaged and may not be replaced, the Chinese Government has confirmed that SAT-1 will indeed be replaced at no extra cost to Nigeria .
The SAT- 1, assembled by a Chinese company, Grid Wall, became faulty not long after it was launched, amidst speculations that substandard materials were used by the company. Special Representative of the Chinese Government on African Affairs, Ambassador Liu Guijin, while speaking to newsmen at the Chinese Embassy in Abuja earlier this week, said the replacement of the satellite, at no extra cost to the Nigerian Government, is a proof that Grid Wall is a credible company willing to satisfy its clients.
Guijin said: “I have also heard something about the satellite. I do not know the most recent developments. But recently, I heard from the Chinese media that Grid Wall Company will be responsible for the replacement of the satellite without any extra charges for its re- building.
This attitude shows that it is a credible company, so that the host country will be satisfied with their services.”On the delayed railway project contracted out to the Chinese Government, the envoy said that the change in Nigeria’s priorities and slowed economic development had contributed to the delay in the execution of the project.
“I am following the recent development on that. I know that there has been a problem for a long time. The change of Nigeria’s priority, the slowdown of economic development and other technical problems have slowed down the project. I want to say that the project has not been stopped.
For Chinese companies, we are open for any issues relating to that to be discussed. We are open to discussions, questions and clarifications, ” he said.