Nigeria and China have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and deepening cooperation under a comprehensive strategic partnership, as both countries marked the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) at a reception in Abuja on Wednesday.
The event brought together distinguished personalities, including top government officials, lawmakers, diplomats, leaders of Chinese enterprises, and Chinese and Nigerian nationals.
In his remarks, Yu Dunhai, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, highlighted China’s achievements in economic growth, poverty reduction, and modernisation, noting that the country has lifted over 800 million people out of poverty and continues to contribute more than 30% to global economic growth.
He said China is eager to share development opportunities with Africa, noting that in June, President Xi Jinping announced a zero-tariff policy for 100% of tariff lines on products from African countries with diplomatic ties to China, a measure he said would boost Africa’s strategic autonomy and development.
The envoy stressed the importance of the Global Governance Initiative (GGI), launched by President Xi Jinping, and expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s endorsement of the framework.
“China deeply appreciates this support and backs Nigeria’s greater role on the international stage,” he said.
Ambassador Yu also pointed to Nigeria-specific projects that have brought tangible benefits, including the Lekki Deep Sea Port, expected to generate $360 billion in economic benefits and 170,000 jobs over 45 years, and the Abuja Water Supply Project, which will serve nearly 3 million residents, and ongoing talks to establish Africa’s first local insulin production facility in Nigeria.
In his remarks, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin congratulated China and praised its transformation into a global leader in innovation, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation. He emphasised the symbolic bond between the two countries, noting that both China’s National Day and Nigeria’s Independence Day fall on October 1.
Barau, who was represented by Senator Babangida Hussaini, noted the tangible outcomes of Nigeria–China cooperation, from modern railways and airports to industrial parks and power projects, stressing that Chinese investments are visible across Nigeria.
He also pointed to President Tinubu’s state visit to China in 2024, which elevated bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership and led to new agreements in industrialization, digital economy, and renewable energy.
The lawmaker reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to China through projects aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Belt and Road Initiative, pledging the National Assembly’s support for transparent and sustainable partnerships.
The celebration featured captivating performances by a Shenzhen delegation, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of China.
On October 1, 1949, Chinese Communist leader Mao Zedong declared the creation of the People’s Republic of China, while diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China were established in 1971.
