By Michael Onjewu, Abuja
The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has reiterated China’s dedication to enhancing cooperation with Nigeria in the area of women empowerment.
Ambassador Yu made this statement on Friday during the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration at the China Cultural Center in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
He emphasized that the theme for this year’s International Women’s Day, “For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment,” serves as an opportunity to celebrate the significant achievements of women across political, economic, technological, and cultural domains globally.
The ambassador praised the contributions of Chinese women to economic and social progress, stating, “Chinese women have truly become the ‘half of the sky,’ making substantial contributions to national development.”
He noted that since the establishment of the People’s Republic of China 75 years ago, the Chinese government has prioritized gender equality and women’s empowerment, creating a comprehensive legal framework to protect women’s rights that includes over 100 laws and regulations.
“The average life expectancy of Chinese women has reached nearly 81 years, and the gender gap in education has been largely closed. Women constitute nearly 45% of the total workforce, and in the internet sector, female entrepreneurs outnumber their male counterparts, making up 55% of the total,” Yu said.
“The remarkable progress China has made in gender equality and women’s development not only reflects China’s unique approach to human rights but also significantly contributes to global equality, development, and peace,” he added.
Ambassador Yu expressed confidence that more women would benefit from high-quality cooperation between China and Nigeria under the Belt and Road Initiative, enabling them to “realize their aspirations and shape a prosperous future.”
The envoy stated that China-Nigeria relations have reached new heights following President Bola Tinubu’s visit to China last year and his participation in the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). He acknowledged the vital role women from both countries play in strengthening these ties across various sectors.
“Over the years, practical cooperation between China and Nigeria has deepened in multiple fields, providing Nigerian women with enhanced medical care, agricultural skills, and increased business opportunities,” he said.
Also speaking, Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, commended Nigerian women for their exceptional achievements on the global stage.
She listed prominent figures such as Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization, and Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, as exemplary representations of Nigerian excellence.
Represented by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Hon. Oraeluno Obinenye Raphael, the minister expressed gratitude to the Chinese Embassy for its efforts in empowering Nigerian women through capacity-building programs and cultural exchanges. She reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to equipping women with the necessary tools and resources to overcome challenges and realize their full potential.
The event organized by the Chinese Embassy in collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs, also featured displays of Chinese arts, musical performances, and the presentation of gifts to attendees.
International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8, drawing attention to critical issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence against women.
