BEING A NIGERIAN ABROAD IS A PROBLEM, IT COMPLICATES LIFE - CATHOLIC BISHOP, GODFREY ONAH LAMENTS
The Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, Most Rev. Godfrey Onah, has raised concerns over what he described as restrictions targeting Nigerians in Italy, claiming that being born in Nigeria can complicate access to banking services.
Speaking about his experience, Onah said he recently visited the Vatican Bank to withdraw money from his account but was told he needed authorisation from the administration because he had exceeded the cash withdrawal limit.
“I was amused. And also a little irritated. It wasn’t that way before,” the bishop said, recounting the incident.
He explained that when he asked whether the restriction applied to everyone or only bishops, the response surprised him.
“It depends on where you were born,” he quoted the response, alleging that the rule specifically targets Nigerians.
Onah also claimed that Nigerians in Italy seeking to open accounts with a certain bank could face difficulties, saying the restriction applied specifically to Nigerians.
The bishop said the situation made life more complicated for Nigerians living abroad, even for those holding positions such as bishops.
His claims about the banking restrictions have raised questions about how Nigerians born in the country are treated when accessing financial services in Italy.