By Ugoaru Chinaeme, Port Harcourt
The University of Port Harcourt proudly positions itself as a cornerstone of the Nigeria-China strategic partnership for a new era, aligning with the shared vision of transformative development between the two nations.
With the recent visit of Wang Yi, China’s Foreign Minister, to Nigeria, the deepening of bilateral ties has been further reinforced through his engagement with Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar and President Bola Tinubu.
These high-level discussions focused on reviewing the Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed during the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), with emphasis on critical sectors such as the economy, political collaboration, and oil and gas.
In light of these developments, the University of Port Harcourt reaffirms its commitment to fostering strategic partnerships, particularly as a representative of the Niger Delta region, to drive mutual benefits for both countries.
The university extends its heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his visionary leadership in appointing Joseph Tegbe as the first Director-General and Global Liaison of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership. This landmark decision demonstrates the President’s dedication to ensuring the effective implementation of the MoUs signed at the Beijing Summit.
Joseph Tegbe’s mandate to oversee and supervise these agreements is a testament to Nigeria’s resolve to strengthen its collaboration with China in ways that deliver tangible and sustainable outcomes. The University of Port Harcourt pledges its unwavering support to this initiative and looks forward to working closely with the Director General to amplify the impact of these agreements, particularly in the South-South geopolitical zone.
As a Centre of academic excellence, the University of Port Harcourt has consistently demonstrated its openness to strategic partnerships that promote a deeper understanding of developmental programs between Nigeria and China. Under the leadership of Professor Georgewill Owunari, the university has taken significant strides in advancing China-Niger Delta cooperation. Employing the first indigenous Chinese language and culture lecturer in the South-South region, commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative with a dedicated magazine, and hosting a vibrant dumpling festival to celebrate Chinese culinary traditions are all testaments to the university’s commitment to fostering cultural diplomacy and mutual understanding.
Additionally, the university’s collaboration with the Chinese Consular General in Lagos, HE, Yan Yuqing, to send delegates for training in higher education management for Developing Countries in China further underscores its dedication to capacity building and knowledge exchange.
The University of Port Harcourt remains steadfast in its mission to gently promote the Belt and Road Initiative within the South-South geopolitical zone of the Niger Delta region. By serving as a hub for education, cultural exchange, and research-driven development, the university is well-positioned to drive local participation in global initiatives. Its role as a bridge between China and the Niger Delta highlights its readiness to contribute to President Tinubu’s vision of a robust Nigeria-China strategic partnership.
Through these efforts, the university envisions a future where the Niger Delta region actively participates in and benefits from global developmental programs, ensuring that the outcomes of the Nigeria-China collaboration resonate across the region. As a beacon of progress and innovation, the University of Port Harcourt invites strategic partnerships to further promote shared goals, foster sustainable development, and strengthen the bond between these two great nations.
Sinologist, Ugoaru Chinaeme is a Chinese Language Lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt.
