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  • China Dazzles the World with Its Spring Festival

    Olalekan A. Babatunde

    As the lunar calendar ushered in the Year of the Horse, the world witnessed a spectacular display of Chinese culture as the Spring Festival, or Chinese New Year, was celebrated with unprecedented enthusiasm across every continent. Far beyond a traditional family reunion and artistic expression, the 2026 festivities have been transformed into a global phenomenon, with the distinctive “China Red” illuminating iconic landmarks and the spirit of the festival captivating millions worldwide.

    While viewing the spectacular displays of culture and traditions in drama, dance, drawings, food and drink, and others, I got captivated by the energy and enthusiasm with which the Chinese projected their heritage. Music legends like Lionel Richie, John Legend, and Westlife played in Beijing. Chinatowns and cultural centres across Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas host parades and exhibitions, drawing diverse audiences into the festivities. The kung fu robots stole the show, indicating how technology is shaping everyday life in China. International landmarks are illuminated in red, and global media outlets devote extensive coverage to the celebrations, reflecting the festival’s growing international resonance.

    Recognition by UNESCO of related Chinese cultural practices has further elevated global awareness of the festival’s heritage value. Watching international news channels such as the CNN, BBC, CGTN, and Al-Jazeera I saw I can only describe this as a global canvas of Chinese traditions. The Festival captured the imagination of the world as a global cultural phenomenon, with celebrations spanning every continent and nearly 20 countries declaring it a public holiday. As a German man named Stefan was quoted as saying that to truly understand China, one must experience its Spring Festival.

    From the bustling streets of Southeast Asia to the grand avenues of Europe and the Americas, the reach of this year’s Spring Festival was truly staggering, and offering diverse audiences a profound insight into the depth and diversity of Chinese musical heritage. One attendee described the experience as a journey that sparked inspiration, while another praised it as a wonderful discovery of Chinese folk music.

    It was estimated that approximately one-fifth of the global population engaged with the Year of the Horse celebrations in various forms. In a testament to the festival’s growing international status, nearly 20 countries have now officially recognised the Lunar New Year as a public holiday, allowing their citizens to partake in the festivities.

    In Europe, the city of London hosted what is described as the largest Lunar New Year celebration outside of Asia, with tens of thousands of revellers flocked to the West End for parades and performances. The United Kingdom’s famed “London Eye” was also illuminated in a vibrant “China Red,” a symbolic gesture of friendship and cultural unity that was replicated on landmarks such as the Calgary Tower in Canada and the “Dream Wheel” in New York. Meanwhile, in the French capital, a Chinese humanoid robot made its debut at a Spring Festival parade in Paris, drawing an audience of approximately 100,000 spectators and demonstrating a fusion of tradition and technological innovation.

    Across the Atlantic, the celebrations were equally vibrant. In Brazil, the “Happy Chinese New Year” Garden Party in São Paulo, one of the largest and most influential events of its kind in the country, attracted hundreds of thousands of local attendees who immersed themselves in Chinese culture. In Mexico, children participated with joy in Spring Festival activities. In Vienna, local children were captivated by workshops on traditional crafts like paper-cutting and sugar figure blowing. In the United States, cultural events featuring traditional cuisine and intangible cultural heritage were held in New York and Seattle, while in Los Angeles, the sounds of drumming accompanied the acrobatic leaps of dragon and lion dancers.

    The festive spirit permeated every corner of the globe. In Australia, the friendship garden in Sydney hosted a vibrant garden party, featuring performances by Chinese artists and interactive areas for experiencing intangible cultural heritage. There were artistic performances and displays of traditional crafts in Lao, Thailand, Vietnam, Nepal, and across the region.

    From the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which was lit up with a spectacular Spring Festival light show for the seventh consecutive year, to the festive marketplaces in Indonesia which released an official Year of the Horse logo, the Chinese New Year has become a season of shared joy.

    In Africa, the “Encounters with China” themed activities were successfully held at the Arab League headquarters in Cairo and the headquarters of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) in Rabat, Morocco, offering a memorable cultural experience centred on Spring Festival traditions. In Nigeria, the global celebrations that transformed Chinese New Year into an international cultural spectacle were staged spreading many days with songs and dance troupe in Abuja’s Chinese Cultural Centre and in Lagos. Seminars and exchanges were held to mark the festival that coincided with the 55th anniversary of the Nigeria-China relations.

    In Kenya, a young man was seen skilfully performing in a dragon dance troupe. Indeed, the Spring Festival also served as a powerful platform for cultural diplomacy and international goodwill.

    In short, the essence of the New Year resonates universally as it provided another powerful opportunity for connection. The Spring Festival’s core values like reunion, harmony, and hope deeply resonated with people from all cultural backgrounds. The festival is already on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and therefore, solidified its status not merely as a Chinese event, but as a cherished treasure for all of humanity.

    As the world bid farewell to the old and welcomed the new, the 2026 Spring Festival stood as a brilliant testament to China’s cultural confidence and its soft power on the international stage. It was a vivid demonstration of how ancient traditions can be revitalised to connect with contemporary global audiences, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation among civilisations. With its message of peace, prosperity, and unity, the Chinese New Year has truly become a festival for the world, building bridges of friendship and contributing to a shared sense of human connection.

    Beyond the pageantry, the Spring Festival carries a deeper message that resonates universally – hope, renewal and shared humanity. In a world often divided by conflict and uncertainty, the festival’s emphasis on harmony, generosity and fresh starts offers a powerful reminder of common values that transcend borders.

    As China continues to play an influential role on the global stage, its Spring Festival stands as one of its most compelling cultural ambassadors. Year after year, it dazzles not only with spectacle, but with meaning – inviting the world to pause, celebrate and look forward together. It is no longer China introducing itself to international audience but endearing itself to the world.

    Nigeria has a lot to learn from the Chinese tradition in preservation of distinctive culture. Each ethnic group should consistently showcase their culture and tradition with love and passion. The world is expectant.

  • Three Years of Impactful Services: Hazras Charity Foundation

    Three Years of Impactful Services: Hazras Charity Foundation

    By Abdullateef Abdulkadir. On the 15th of February, 2026, Hazras Charity Foundation proudly marks three years since its incorporation on 15th February, 2023. These three years have been a journey of compassion, commitment, and community impact. Since our establishment, we have remained dedicated to empowering vulnerable individuals, supporting women and orphans, advancing education, strengthening healthcare initiatives, and promoting sustainable community development. Every milestone achieved has been made possible through the unwavering support of our donors, partners, volunteers, and friends. We extend our deepest appreciation to: Our generous donors, whose financial contributions have enabled life-changing programs and sustainable empowerment initiatives. Our strategic partners and collaborating organizations, whose trust and cooperation have strengthened our impact. Our friends, supporters, and well-wishers, who continue to believe in our mission and stand by us. Your support has not only sustained our work but has inspired hope in the lives of many beneficiaries across our communities. As we celebrate this third anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to transparency, accountability, and service to humanity. We look forward to expanding our reach and deepening our impact in the years ahead. Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, we build hope. Together, we create change. 

    




    Abdullateef Abdulkadir, National President,
    




    Hazras Charity Foundation(HCF)

    




    




    




    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    Defence beyond Guns: Why Human Life Matters 
    
			
    

        By Abu Jemimah Lami 
    




    Defence is often imagined in the language of weapons, battalions, and territorial protection. The dominant image is that of soldiers guarding borders, fighter jets patrolling skies, and advanced military hardware deterring external aggression. For centuries, this traditional understanding of security, centered on state sovereignty and military strength, shaped national defence policies across the world. Yet in the twenty-first century, the most pressing threats to people’s safety increasingly extend beyond the battlefield. As global risks evolve, it has become clear that true defence must go beyond guns. It must protect not only territory but also the lives, dignity, and well-being of people. This broader understanding is captured in the concept of human security.
    




    Traditional defence systems were primarily designed to address external military threats. States invested heavily in armed forces to prevent invasion, deter rivals, and respond to insurgencies. While such measures remain relevant, they are no longer sufficient. Many of today’s most devastating threats are not conventional wars between states. Pandemics, climate change, economic instability, food insecurity, and internal violence demonstrate that a country can possess a powerful military and still fail to protect its citizens from widespread suffering. The COVID-19 pandemic revealed that even militarily advanced nations were vulnerable to biological threats that overwhelmed health systems and disrupted economies. No number of tanks or missiles could substitute for robust public health infrastructure.
    




    Traditional defence frameworks often prioritize external dangers while neglecting internal vulnerabilities. A state may focus on securing its borders yet overlook the insecurity experienced daily by citizens who lack access to food, healthcare, education, or employment. In many societies, individuals face greater risks from poverty, crime, environmental degradation, and poor governance than from foreign invasion. When defence is defined narrowly, these realities fall outside national security policy, even though they directly affect social stability and long-term peace.
    




    A purely militarized approach can sometimes intensify insecurity. Heavy military spending may divert resources from social services that strengthen communities and prevent crises. Militarized responses to internal unrest can deepen grievances, fuel cycles of violence, and erode trust between governments and citizens. While armed force may be necessary in certain circumstances, it cannot address root causes of instability such as inequality, marginalization, or weak institutions.
    




    The concept of human security emerged in the 1990s to address these shortcomings. It gained prominence through the 1994 Human Development Report of the United Nations Development Programme, which reframed security around two core freedoms: freedom from fear and freedom from want. Instead of focusing exclusively on protecting states, human security centers on protecting individuals. It recognizes that people’s safety depends not only on protection from violence but also on access to basic needs, social inclusion, and political rights.
    




    Human security encompasses multiple dimensions of well-being. Economic security ensures stable livelihoods and protection from extreme poverty. Food security guarantees reliable access to sufficient nutrition. Health security safeguards populations from disease and ensures accessible healthcare services. Environmental security addresses threats posed by climate change and resource depletion. Personal security protects individuals from violence and abuse. Community security preserves social cohesion and cultural identity, while political security ensures participation in governance without fear of repression. These interconnected dimensions reflect the complexity of modern insecurity.
    




    Global threats illustrate why this broader approach is necessary. Climate change intensifies droughts, floods, and extreme weather, displacing populations and increasing competition over resources. Economic shocks ripple across borders through globalized markets, affecting livelihoods far from their origin. Cyber threats disrupt infrastructure and compromise sensitive data. Public health crises spread rapidly in an interconnected world. These challenges do not respect national boundaries and cannot be addressed solely through military force. They require coordinated policies across sectors such as health, education, environment, finance, and governance.
    




    Focusing on human security also shifts the moral and political center of defence. When the state is treated as the sole object of protection, citizens’ lived experiences may be overshadowed by geopolitical concerns. Yet the legitimacy of any state ultimately depends on its ability to safeguard its people. A nation cannot be considered secure if large segments of its population live in chronic fear of hunger, violence, or repression. Human security insists that defence policies must prioritize the protection of human life and dignity.
    




    Investing in human security strengthens societal resilience, which refers to the capacity of individuals and communities to withstand and recover from shocks. Strong public health systems can contain disease outbreaks before they escalate. Effective social safety nets can cushion families during economic downturns. Inclusive governance can reduce tensions that might otherwise lead to conflict. Sustainable environmental management can prevent resource scarcity from turning into violent competition. By building resilience, societies reduce the likelihood that crises will spiral into instability requiring military intervention.
    




    The relationship between security and development further underscores the relevance of human security. Poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunity often create conditions that fuel unrest and conflict. Conversely, conflict disrupts development by destroying infrastructure and undermining economic activity. Policies that promote equitable development, strengthen institutions, and protect human rights contribute directly to long-term peace and stability. In this sense, schools, hospitals, and fair legal systems are as essential to national defence as military installations.
    




    Critics argue that human security is too broad, making it difficult to set priorities or measure success. Implementing comprehensive strategies also requires significant resources and coordination, which may challenge governments with limited capacity. Nonetheless, the breadth of the concept reflects the interconnected nature of modern threats. Narrow definitions of security may offer clarity, but they risk overlooking the factors that determine whether societies remain stable and peaceful.
    




    Defence beyond guns does not mean abandoning military capabilities. Armed forces remain necessary for deterring aggression and responding to violent threats. However, they represent only one component of a wider security architecture. A balanced approach recognizes that investments in health, education, environmental protection, economic opportunity, and good governance are integral to national defence. When people have access to basic services, trust institutions, and feel included in political life, societies are less susceptible to conflict and extremism.
    




    Ultimately, the question is not whether military defence matters, but whether it is enough. Contemporary realities suggest that it is not. Security must address the full spectrum of risks that threaten human life and dignity. By embracing human security, policymakers acknowledge that the safety of borders is inseparable from the well-being of people within them. True defence lies not only in the strength of weapons, but in the strength of societies and their commitment to justice and inclusion.
    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    Terrorism Spillover from the Sahel: What Nigeria Must Prepare For
    
			
    

    By Emmanuel Samdave Onuche
    




    The Sahel has emerged as the world’s deadliest theatre of terrorism, and Nigeria can no longer treat the crisis as a distant regional upheaval. According to the in its 2024 , the Sahel now accounts for more than half of all terrorism-related deaths globally, overtaking the Middle East as the epicentre of extremist violence.
    




    The deterioration of security in , and has created vast ungoverned spaces exploited by jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. Military coups, fragile institutions and shrinking international engagement have further deepened instability across the belt.
    




    Nigeria’s Strategic Exposure
    




    Nigeria’s geography places it directly south of this volatile corridor. Its long, porous borders and deep socio-cultural ties with Sahelian communities heighten vulnerability to the spillover of fighters, weapons and extremist ideology.
    




    The illustrates this transnational threat. Insurgent groups such as and operate fluidly across Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Cameroon, exploiting border weaknesses. Data from the shows thousands of jihadist attacks across the central Sahel in 2024, with several occurring dangerously close to Nigeria’s northern frontiers.
    




    Proliferation of Arms and Criminal Convergence
    




    The flow of small arms and light weapons from Sahelian conflict zones has intensified insecurity within Nigeria. The has repeatedly warned that weapons from Libya-era stockpiles and active Sahel battlefields continue to move southward.
    




    These arms have empowered criminal networks responsible for banditry, kidnapping and communal violence in northern Nigeria. Increasingly, the operational lines between organised crime and terrorism are blurring, creating a hybrid threat environment that complicates counter-insurgency responses.
    




    Humanitarian Pressure and Social Fragility
    




    The crisis extends beyond security. The estimates that more than three million people remain displaced across the Lake Chad region. Nigeria hosts a significant share, alongside millions internally displaced by domestic conflicts.
    




    While humanitarian protection remains a moral and legal obligation, unmanaged displacement strains public services, intensifies resource competition and can create recruitment opportunities for extremist groups.
    




    Governance Gaps and Ideological Risk
    




    Extremist movements thrive in environments marked by poverty, unemployment and weak state legitimacy. In parts of northern Nigeria, youth unemployment, limited educational access and fragile public trust create fertile ground for radical narratives.
    




    The withdrawal or scaling down of foreign military missions in Mali and Niger may further embolden militant groups to seek new operational spaces. Without proactive measures, Nigeria’s northern states risk becoming attractive expansion zones.
    




    The Imperative of Preparedness
    




    The warning signs are clear. Terrorism does not respect borders, and proximity alone places Nigeria on the frontline of a widening regional conflict. Strengthening border security, enhancing regional intelligence cooperation, disrupting arms trafficking networks, investing in youth employment and restoring public trust in governance must become urgent national priorities.
    




    Failure to act decisively could see Nigeria drawn deeper into the Sahel’s expanding conflict arc. Preparedness, coordination and sustained political will today will determine whether the country contains the threat—or becomes its next major battleground.
    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    China has transitioned from a Major Financier to a Reliable Development Partner for Africa
    
			
    China has transitioned from a Major Financier to a Reliable Development Partner for Africa
    
			
    

    By Prof Sheriff Ghali Ibrahim
    




    The enviable position of China in contemporary international economic system has emerged formidable, unstoppable and incrementally expanding in all sectors and ramifications. This might be seen as a carefully crafted rejoinder or a great response against an article  titled “China has transitioned from a major financier to a net debt collector in Africa,” which came as a report by ONE Data for the Development Finance Observatory, released in january, 2026.
    




    The report provided that “China has transitioned from a major financier to a net debt collector in Africa, marking a $52.5 billion, decade-long swing in financial flows…Repayments now exceed new funding, with the continent shifting from a $30.4 billion net inflow (2010–2014) to a $22.1 billion net outflow to China (2020–2024).” It is pertinet to note that giving back to sender in a positive way is not a crime and the lender had made sacrifices in aiding the recipient nations in a period of infrastructure distress, modernization deficit and lack of energy and power. The recipient (Africa) is being grateful and not complaining.
    




    The report has claimed that, reversal in flows occured between 2020 and 2024, at least 20 African nations recorded net outflows to China, totaling $33.8 billion in repayments. It provided a concept of “small is beautiful” approach, that China has moved away from massive infrastructure loans toward smaller, more targeted, and commercially viable projects. This is to the advantage of African countries to slow down as well to asess and recalculate the functions of the existing infrastructure already put in place and the benefits it accrues to the continent. For Africa to allow perpetual inflow of loans does not make a sense, but wise enough to reflect and evaluate the weight of the existing arrangements and try not to renege its veritable pledge to payback the loan. Africa and China have good understanding and they mutually synergise in development cooperation.
    




    The report also asserts that there are Drivers of Change such as Increased risk aversion regarding repayment capacity in African nations, combined with economic shifts in China, caused lending to collapse from over $28 billion at its peak to $2.1 billion in 2024. The report suggests that African treasuries are now prioritizing debt service. Traditionally speaking, every harmonious lending system should establish mutual trust and understanding. China is not a colonial power and does not want to see African countries in a debt-distress. Consequently China and African countries understand the situation and prefer to go on an increased risk aversion. China should not be in a position to loss its lendings and Africa should not risk failure to repay what it has collected. Harmonious relationship is built on the above principle in honesty and sincerity between two reliable partners.
    




    It claimed Currency Shift in mitigating risk, where China is increasingly denominating loans in Yuan, with countries like Kenya and Ethiopia converting existing USD debt. All independent countries will choose a path to mitigating risks in an era of global economic uncertainties, unprovoked trade and tariff war, untold economic conspiracies and geopolitical rivalry. If nations are to redesign the Special Drawing Rights (SDR) of the IMF to avert risks, using their national currencies, that does not offend Africa, and China has the prerogative to determine what plays in its economy; to use or not to use its curency and converting debt in which currency.
    




    The report, by implication, is a sheer opposite of what China does in Africa. The conceptual framework of development is utterly hinged on poverty reduction and level of employment of the total laborforce extending to favorable changes in the economy and living standards of the people. Chinese investments in Africa have generated over 1.1 million jobs for local workers over the three-year period leading up to 2024–2025. These jobs are primarily created through infrastructure, manufacturing, and trade projects.
    




    China wishes to create more jobs for Africa as announced during the 2024 FOCAC summit. It pledged to create at least 1 million more jobs over the next three years (through 2027). As China continues to invest in Africa, reports indicate that a $200 million investment could generate 350,000 jobs in specific countries like Nigeria. China is indeed a development partner from the records of history and concurrent contributions to Africa’s growth and development. For example, China has executed numerous high-value capital projects across Africa under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), focusing on railways, ports, energy, and infrastructure, with over 10,000 km of railway and 100,000 km of roads.
    




    In conclusion, China and Africa are more focused  on mutual benefits, and strengthening ties to building a China-Africa Community with a shared future. There is no issue of debt-trap in China-Africa relations, but development cooperation and win-win partnership. One major indicator is the elimination of trade barriers or zero-tariff policy China recently announced for African exports to China. This suffices the comprehension of the sincere and honest intention of the two partners in mutual assistance and derivational benefits in their mutual relation.
    




    Prof Ghali is the provost, ICPC’S Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria and Head of Contemporary China-Afria Research in Nigeria
    




    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    U.S Bill: Driving a wedge at Nigeria- China Partnership
    
			
    U.S Bill: Driving a wedge at Nigeria- China Partnership
    
			
    

     By Charles Onunaiju, Abuja
    




    Just recently, American’s political establishment took credulity too far, perhaps believing that it takes only to dare and fabricate and everything falls into place. 
    




    Nigeria is Africa’s major country, both the continent’s largest economy and biggest population has humongous deposit of critical minerals beneath its expansive swath of land.
    




    Nigeria relations and cooperation with China generally considered pragmatic with outcomes of tangible results have also been the target of innuendoes and scurrilous misrepresentations by the United States of America. 
    




    While it has largely conducted its persistent slander of Nigeria-China cooperation, without necessarily naming names, its latest bold effrontery at targeting the Nigeria-Sino relation was a undisguised spittle concocted from Washington’s paranoid ideological bowels, only that this time its stinking dirt was covered with a so-called legislative bill, with a patronising title,” Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026″ with the explicit aim “to require a comprehensive report on United State efforts to address religious persecutions and mass atrocities in Nigeria”. 
    




    The nexus to Nigeria’s mass atrocities and Washington underhand complicity was in public display a year ago, when a U.S Republican Congressman, Mr. Perry Scott disclosed that the United States Aid Agency (USAID) funded foreign terrorist organization, including the dreaded terror group in Nigeria, Boko Haram and its off-shots, which has wreaked havoc in Nigeria besides its original base in the North East of the country.
    




    The Massacre of nearly 200 people in the sleepy community of Worro in Kwara state, North Central Nigeria was perpetrated by Boko Haram offshoot operating in Kainji forest in the region.  
    




    Congressman Scott Perry in a session titled “The war on Waste: Stamping out the scourge of improper payments and fraud” raised questions about where the tax payer’s money go, “who get some of the money?Does the name ring bell to anybody in the room? Because your money, your money, $697 million annually plus the shipments of cash, funds in Madrases ISIS, AL-Queda, Boko Haram, ISIS Khorassan terrorist training camps. 
    




    That is what it is funding.” Connecting the revelations with the resilience and the staying power of the Boko Haram terror group despite the military pressure of Nigeria’s authorities, not many people have any illusions about who keep the terror campaign in Nigeria on the move and flourishing too.Despite that in 2021, Nigeria received all the twelve Tucano fighter jets from the U.S at a whooping cost of 500 million U.S dollars, described by the U.S Department of Defence, renamed Department of War as the largest single arms purchase in sub-Africa.
    




     Despite the hype, the fighter jets did not manage to serious dent the Boko Haram campaign of terror, rather its theatre was rather widened.The latest legislative bill took umbrage at China, directing “the secretary of State to work with the government of Nigeria to counteract hostile foreign exploitation of Chinese illegal mining operations and destabilizing practices involving protection payments to militias”.
    




     The brazen interference in the normal bilateral cooperation of two friendly countries, represent a new low of the unhinged Washington elites for whom trouble shopping is a next nature.
    




    Five Republican lawmakers, Messers Chris Smith, Niley Moore, Brian Mast, Mario Driaz-Balart and Bill Huizenga have been in the fore-front of the fabrication about a genocide of any particular group in Nigeria despite the well-known fact that all religious groups in Nigeria have fallen victims to the heinous campaign of terror, and whose origins have much to do with Washington.
    




    Before the U.S led NATO destabilization campaign in Libya, Boko Haram was an extremist sect, whose campaign was restricted to a small patch of a state in North East Nigeria. The destabilization of Libya by the U.S led NATO opened the gate to hell releasing weapons, munitions and trainees to incipient terror group across the Sahel and Nigeria. Boko Haram, whose terror tactics was mainly confined to improvised makeshift bombs took hold of the portions of Libyan armory flung open by the U.S led NATO and deliberately allowed to flow into the hands of irregular non state actors.
    




    That Boko Haram and its affiliates metamorphosised from a local lightly armed band to a sophisticated terror group was largely thanks to Washington and NATO. While Washington has extensibly nurtured and fed terror campaigns in Nigeria and the Sahel, her audacity to point fingers in other directions is a well established pattern of U.S historical revisionism.China through her Embassy in Nigeria has pushed back at the U.S allegations, describing it as “completely baseless”, pointing that “the over-whelming majority of Chinese mining companies in Nigeria have set an exemplary record of compliance with Nigeria laws and regulations”. and adding that “Chinese mining enterprises in Nigeria are victims of terrorist activities”.Since 2025, Nigeria has been commissioning multiple Chinese backed Lithium plants marking a departure from raw material exports to domestic processing. 
    




    Major projects include 600 million USD plant near Kaduna-Niger border, a 200 million USD refinery near Abuja and two additional facilities in Nasarawa. Over 80% of the funding for this four major facilities are provided by Chinese investors including Jiuling Lithium Mining Company and Canmax Technologies. 
    




    In the race to the global electric vehicle battery supply chain, Nigeria’s increased capacity in the sector through massive Chinese investment, would significantly boost her position.The United States understand the prospect of Nigeria emerging capacity in the global energy transition and would stop at nothing to derail it. 
    




    The first step is to slander and scare away the Chinese investors, bringing the emerging industry to share the similar fate of the Ajaokuta steel Mill abandoned with implications that robbed Nigeria a place in the global steel industry value chain.
    




    Turning Nigeria into a theatre for the ideological containment of China is a Washington long term project and the pretenses to address religious persecution and mass atrocities in Nigeria’ is the latest chapter in undermining Nigerian prospects and tarnishing one her important bilateral relations.
    




    Nigeria authorities must reflect on a spectacular moment in U.S power diplomacy as noted by one of her leading lights on U.S international relations. Henry Kissinger has warned that “While to be America’s enemy is dangerous, to be America’s friend is fatal”. 
    




    That the Atlantic alliance is currently at its fractured worst point that any pontifications of altruism and concerns for others by Washington must be taken with considerable and measured sceptism.While a range of intervening variables would be necessary in the Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, banditry and other criminalities; inclusive and sustainable development is not only the solution in the long term but a guarantee against future resurgence. 
    




    In this regard, Nigeria-China partnership have delivered tangible contributions and it is no wonder that “America first” ideologues would go for the jugular of that meaningful partnership.
    




    Mr., Onunaiju is Abuja based commentator on Public Affairs
    




    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    Zero-Tariff Opportunities: Elevating China–Nigeria Cooperation to a New Level
    
			
    Zero-Tariff Opportunities: Elevating China–Nigeria Cooperation to a New Level
    
			
    

    (By H.E. YU Dunhai, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria)
    




    On February 14, President Xi Jinping announced in his congratulatory message to the 39th African Union Summit that China will, starting from May 1, 2026, extend comprehensive zero-tariff treatment to the 53 African countries having diplomatic ties with China, while continuing to encourage the conclusion of the Agreement on Economic Partnership for Shared Development. The comprehensive zero-tariff treatment for African countries represents another major step by China to support Africa’s development and deepen China-Africa cooperation. This policy is not a slogan, but a concrete institutional arrangement aimed at enabling more high-quality African products to enter the Chinese market more conveniently and creating greater development opportunities for African countries.
    




    For Nigeria, what changes could zero tariffs bring? Simply put, more Nigerian products will be able to enter China’s vast market of over 1.4 billion people at lower cost. The removal of tariffs will directly reduce entry barriers, enhance competitiveness, and help Nigerian enterprises secure more orders and achieve more stable market access.
    




    Nigeria, one of Africa’s largest economies, possesses abundant agricultural resources and a dynamic business community. In recent years, the Nigerian government has actively promoted economic diversification to reduce reliance on single-resource exports. China’s zero-tariff policy strongly supports this strategic objective. Sesame, ginger, cashew nuts, cocoa, cassava products, aquatic products, and other agricultural goods all have broad prospects in the Chinese market. As Chinese consumers’ demand for healthy and high-quality food continues to grow, Nigeria’s specialty products are well positioned to win the favor of more Chinese households.
    




    More importantly, zero tariffs will not only expand exports but also drive local industrial upgrading. A stable expectation of exports to China will attract greater foreign investment to Nigeria, encouraging enterprises to establish processing and manufacturing facilities that utilize tariff preferences and position Nigeria as a production base for exports to China. This will directly promote local manufacturing and facilitate Nigeria’s transition from exporting raw materials to exporting processed and value-added products. As production scales up, enterprises will place greater emphasis on processing, quality improvement, and brand development, thereby stimulating growth in deep processing, packaging, logistics, and quality certification systems, creating more jobs and increasing incomes for farmers and small and medium-sized enterprises. By continuously raising standards and quality, Nigerian products will build a stronger brand image in international markets.
    




    To ensure that the zero-tariff policy is implemented smoothly within the framework of international rules and becomes a long-term institutional arrangement, China and Nigeria are negotiating the Agreement on Economic Partnership for Shared Development. This agreement has a clear development orientation. Under World Trade Organization rules, developing countries may pursue deeper cooperation through free trade agreements. The Agreement on Economic Partnership for Shared Development is designed within this framework, fully consistent with multilateral rules while taking into account Nigeria’s development stage and practical needs.
    




    In the future, both sides may, in line with Nigeria’s development priorities, gradually deepen cooperation under the agreement in areas such as supply chain development, the digital economy, and industrial capacity building. Cooperation will follow a pragmatic and incremental approach, ensuring that every step genuinely serves Nigeria’s economic development and the improvement of people’s livelihoods.
    




    Amid growing uncertainty in the global economy, China has chosen to further expand opening-up and proactively create market opportunities for developing countries, including Nigeria. This reflects China’s commitment to win-win cooperation. China’s development is inseparable from the world, and global prosperity likewise requires greater openness and cooperation.
    




    Zero tariffs present an opportunity, but what matters most is translating opportunity into tangible results. This requires government departments to enhance trade facilitation measures and enterprises to actively improve product quality and build strong brands. China stands ready to continue supporting Nigerian enterprises in entering the Chinese market through exhibition platforms, trade promotion activities, and capacity-building programs.
    




    China and Nigeria are both developing countries bearing the historic mission of achieving modernization and improving people’s livelihoods. We are confident that through joint efforts, more “Made in Nigeria” products will enter the Chinese market, creating more jobs and income opportunities for Nigeria and allowing the peoples of both countries to share in the fruits of cooperation. Let us work together to turn the opportunities of openness into concrete development outcomes and jointly write a new chapter of mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Nigeria.
    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    Beyond Rhetoric: Gov Umar Namadi FCA, and the Reconfiguration of Jigawa’s Political Future Ahead of 2027
    
			
    

    2027: Beyond Rhetoric: Gov Umar Namadi FCA, and the Reconfiguration of Jigawa’s Political Future
    




    BY Yunusa Hamza, Jigawa
    




    The 2027 general elections are almost upon us. As the nation witnesses political turbulence within and beyond its shores, Jigawa State stands at a critical crossroads. The opposition, often confused and fragmented, seems to falter at every turn, even as the so-called political ‘schisms’ and ‘isms’ of the emerging new gladiators fail to provide a coherent alternative. Historically known for political stability and loyalty to dominant parties, Jigawa is once again emerging as a strategic electoral stronghold. Power brokers, policy analysts, and governance observers alike are closely monitoring the state’s political evolution, revolution, and transformation. At the center of this narrative is Governor Umar Namadi FCA, whose leadership style and governance approach appear to be reshaping Jigawa’s political discourse beyond conventional rhetoric.
    




    Rather than relying solely on slogans or party loyalty, Governor Namadi has constructed a performance-based political identity, anchoring electoral legitimacy in tangible governance outcomes. This development raises a fundamental question: Is Jigawa moving toward a new era of issue-based politics, or is it merely witnessing a more sophisticated form of political consolidation? This remains a million-dollar question for political analysts and stakeholders in the governance and governmental affairs of the new world.
    




    Before delving further, it is necessary to revisit the traditional political pattern in Jigawa’s history, which has largely been characterized by continuity, elite consensus, and strong party structures. Electoral outcomes have often reflected established power networks rather than vibrant ideological competition.
    




     Campaigns traditionally focused on personality, patronage, and party affiliation, with limited emphasis on policy substance. Consequently, political body language often outweighed accountability, and public discourse revolved more around loyalty than long-term development visions. Those familiar with the state’s political evolution can attest to this trajectory—from the emergence of Governor Ali Sa’ad Birnin Kudu under the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 1993, to Governor Ibrahim Saminu Turaki of the All People’s Party (APP), who won against the PDP candidate despite the PDP controlling the majority of LGAs, and the subsequent transition to Sule Lamido under ANPP political arrangements.
    




    This pattern persisted even during the political juggernaut of 2015, when political “marodanism” dominated the discourse, influencing the very DNA of state politics without clear frameworks to claim ignorance. Governor Muhammad Badaru Abubakar then emerged as the sole candidate of the merger after rigorous permutation and politicking, famously referred to as the “Gumel battle,” which stood as a testament to political arithmetic overcoming odds. The politics, politicking, and politization of Jigawa’s political structure often suffered from mismanagement, ego-driven maneuvers, and silent political coups that disregarded the rule of the game—costing the state a lot politically and financially.
    




    Without jumping the gun, the emergence and governance journey of Governor Umar Namadi is markedly different. Under his leadership, social, economic, and political indicators have drastically and positively changed, making governance a more strategic and inclusive arena. Fondly referred to as Governor Umar Danmodi, he employs more carrot than stick in addressing systemic challenges, tactfully dismantling policy clusterization, and ensuring that citizens across all strata benefit from his administration’s interventions. This has been realized through the rigorous implementation of his 12-point agenda, aligned with state plans, processes, and procedures.
    




    Governor Namadi’s administration has institutionalized weekly State Executive Council meetings, publicized council resolutions, monitored project implementation, and ensured follow-ups. Citizens’ engagement has been conducted year-round across all 27 LGAs, including one-of-its-kind sectoral consultations with relevant stakeholders to assess performance, identify challenges, and determine solutions.
    




     This approach has fundamentally altered governance and political narratives in the state. His administration consistently foregrounds governance outcomes, ranging from youth empowerment, social welfare, agricultural development, and institutional reform, rather than mere party loyalty or symbolic political gestures.
    




    Those within the development space have witnessed Governor Namadi’s contributions to globally recognized governance principles under the Open Government Partnership, which he co-chairs. These learnings have facilitated a shift in public attention from campaign promises to measurable actions, positioning governance itself as a political campaign tool. By emphasizing implementation over declaration, Governor Namadi has cultivated an image of competence and seriousness, blurring the line between administration and political mobilization.
    




    Beyond governance, the Governor has demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of political engineering. His consolidation of party structures, encouragement of grassroots mobilization, and alignment with federal leadership reflect deliberate efforts to stabilize political dominance. These strategies have weakened opposition influence and reinforced APC’s control in the state. However, this consolidation is not authoritarian or coercive; it is legitimized through performance narratives, consultation, and citizen-centered interventions. Development projects and social programs function not only as public goods but also as political capital. Governance, therefore, becomes both a service to citizens and a tool for sustaining power.
    




    This dual function marks a new phase in Jigawa politics, redefining political legitimacy. Power is no longer justified solely by tradition or party loyalty but through managed perceptions of effectiveness and visible impacts on citizens’ lives. From Gwiwa LGA in the extreme northeast to Gwaram LGA, every politically recognized ward has received interventions. Farin Dutse, for instance, has seen the rejuvenation of a failed electricity line that had been nonfunctional for over sixteen years, construction of concrete drainages to mitigate gully erosion, new schools addressing out-of-school challenges, and solar-powered water systems covering the entire community. Road projects linking Gwaram to Farin Dutse, Fagam, and Kwanar Sagir are scheduled for rehabilitation and asphalt overlay, facilitating the transport of goods from Haya Market, the region’s commercial hub.
    




    Perhaps the most significant outcome of this governance-driven narrative is the gradual transformation of voter expectations. Many Jigawa citizens now assess leadership through visible outcomes rather than symbolic promises. Infrastructure, employment programs, and social interventions increasingly define political evaluation. The state is witnessing a deliberate shift from traditional, sentiment-driven politics to a new normal where expert-driven, data-informed interventions shape political dynamics, reducing disenfranchisement and fostering conscious, strategic political engineering.
    




    Governor Umar Namadi FCA’s leadership, therefore, goes beyond rhetoric. It reflects a sophisticated interplay of governance, political consolidation, and citizen-centered interventions that could redefine Jigawa’s political future as the state approaches the 2027 general elections. Whether this transformation evolves into sustained issue-based politics or a more refined consolidation strategy remains to be seen. For now, it is a compelling demonstration of how performance, pragmatism, and inclusivity can reshape political discourse and voter expectations in a historically stable but evolving political landscape. 
    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    The Future of Nigeria–China Relations: Partnership or Dependency?
    
			
    The Future of Nigeria–China Relations: Partnership or Dependency?
    
			
    

    By Solomon Iliya Jeffrey
    




    The relationship between Nigeria and China has evolved significantly over the past two decades, culminating in its elevation to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP). This upgrade signals a deepening political, economic, and developmental cooperation between Africa’s largest economy and the world’s second‑largest economy. For Nigeria, the shift carries immense potential, if strategically managed. For China, it reinforces its long‑term interests in Africa, particularly in trade, investment, infrastructure, and geopolitical partnerships.
    




    The CSP status means Nigeria and China now collaborate at higher diplomatic levels, enjoy broader policy coordination, and pursue long‑term, multi‑sector development plans. One clear benefit for Nigeria lies in infrastructure financing. Chinese loans and engineering firms, such as CCECC, have played central roles in major projects like the Abuja–Kaduna railway, Lagos–Ibadan railway, airport terminal expansions, and numerous road networks. These projects have improved mobility, reduced travel time, and boosted commerce across regions. The Abuja–Kaduna rail alone has transported millions of passengers since inception, easing pressure on road transport and stimulating local economies.
    




    Another advantage is technology transfer. China’s advancement in telecommunications and digital infrastructure has supported Nigerian companies through partnerships with firms such as Huawei and ZTE. Nigeria’s 4G expansion and ongoing 5G rollout owe much to Chinese technology and investment. Through the CSP framework, these collaborations can be strengthened to enhance cybersecurity, local capacity building, and indigenous tech innovation.
    




    An important but often overlooked area is people‑to‑people cooperation. Institutions such as the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) have enjoyed a productive relationship with the Chinese government. Through joint workshops, research programmes, and the Win‑Win philosophy exchange schemes, both sides have deepened understanding on conflict prevention, peaceful development, and international cooperation. The Win‑Win model, one of China’s foreign policy pillars, emphasizes mutual benefit rather than dominance. Nigeria has leveraged this through diplomatic training, peace studies collaborations, and staff exchanges that have strengthened institutional capacity.
    




    Economic diversification is another area Nigeria stands to gain from. China remains one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners, but the trade balance heavily favors China. However, with the CSP upgrade, Nigeria can negotiate better market access for agricultural products, solid minerals, and manufactured goods. Success stories already exist. For example, Nigerian sesame seeds and cashew nuts have gained wider entry into the Chinese market. If properly coordinated, Nigeria’s leather, cocoa, and textile industries can also tap into China’s vast consumer markets.
    




    Additionally, Chinese investments in free trade zones, such as the Lekki Free Trade Zone and Ogun‑Guangdong FTZ, have created jobs, supported manufacturing, and boosted exports. These zones show how Nigeria can benefit from industrialization partnerships rather than solely importing finished goods. Yet, despite these positives, challenges remain. Nigeria must address concerns about debt sustainability, terms of engagement, local content enforcement, and technology dependence. These issues do not diminish the value of the partnership, but they underscore the need for stronger negotiation frameworks. For example, ensuring more joint ventures rather than purely Chinese‑led projects would enhance skill transfer and long‑term economic benefits. Strengthening regulatory bodies will also ensure compliance with environmental and labor standards.Looking ahead, several strategies can sustain and strengthen the relationship.
    




     First, Nigeria should prioritize sectors where China has comparative advantage, technology, manufacturing, transportation, and renewable energy, while also pushing for capacity‑building agreements. Second, academic and cultural exchanges should be expanded beyond diplomatic institutions to universities, think tanks, and youth innovation hubs. Third, Nigeria must take advantage of China’s willingness to support security and peacebuilding programmes. With IPCR already collaborating on peace research, expanding these efforts can help address internal conflicts and regional insecurity.
    




    Ultimately, Nigeria–China relations do not have to be a story of dependency. With transparent agreements, strong local participation, and clearly defined national interests, the partnership can drive industrial growth, digital transformation, and long‑term development. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership presents a chance for Nigeria to reposition itself globally, not as a passive recipient, but as an active partner shaping its own future.
    




    Solomon Iliya Jeffrey, is a Corps member at the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR). Abuja, and can be reached via: solomonjefferey24@gmail.com
    

    
			
    
		
    
		
	
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    Commentary: After NAHCON Chairman’s Exit, Stability Of 2026 Hajj Must Guide Next Steps.
    
			
    Commentary: After NAHCON Chairman’s Exit, Stability Of 2026 Hajj Must Guide Next Steps.
    
			
    


      BY INDEPENDENT HAJJ REPORTERS.


     Following the resignation of the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), we, Independent Hajj Reporters, call on the President and the Vice President to exercise caution and pragmatism at this very critical stage of the 2025 Hajj operations. 

    With major arrangements already concluded, including pilgrims’ registration, logistics planning, and the operational framework, there is a clear need to allow officials who have been directly involved in these processes to continue steering the exercise.  

    We urge the Federal Government to appoint, in an acting capacity, the most competent individual and relatively free from allegation of corruption from within the existing operational team to lead the commission for this year’s Hajj. 

    Such a decision will guarantee continuity and prevent avoidable disruptions, pending the appointment of a substantive chairman with proven experience and a credible track record in Hajj administration who can later reconfigure and strengthen the system. 

     We also align with the government’s decision to accept the resignation of the former chairman, especially in view of the numerous allegations against him and the deep division that existed between his office and members of the NAHCON board.

     The breakdown in working relations made effective collaboration impossible and, if allowed to continue, would have negatively affected Nigerian pilgrims. 

     Furthermore, we caution against appointing an entirely new figure from outside the system at this late stage of preparations. 

    Doing so would amount to starting the operation afresh, which is neither practical nor advisable at a time when pilgrims have completed registration and are awaiting airlift. 

    This is not the moment for experimentation, but for stability, continuity, and informed leadership drawn from those already embedded in the current Hajj framework. 

     Our position is an extract from experiences in hajj operations especially the current structural characteristics of Hajj exercise brought about by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

      Ultimately, our call is for a transition that places the welfare, comfort, and successful participation of Nigerian pilgrims above all other considerations.