Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, says Chinese companies are in advanced talks with Nigerian authorities to establish Africa’s first local insulin production facility in the country.
Speaking at a reception in Abuja on Wednesday to mark the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Ambassador Yu said the project has the potential to end Nigeria’s dependence on imported insulin and transform the nation into a hub for medical biotechnology in Africa.
He explained that the initiative is part of China’s broader commitment to deepening cooperation with Nigeria across health, infrastructure, trade, and education.
“Our cooperation has brought tangible benefits to the Nigerian people,” Yu said, citing the Lekki Deep Sea Port and the Abuja Water Supply Project as examples of joint projects already changing lives.
The envoy noted that the Lekki Port, Nigeria’s new national gateway is expected to generate $360 billion in economic benefits and create 170,000 jobs over the next 45 years. Similarly, the Abuja Water Supply Project, completed in June, will provide clean water for nearly 3 million residents of the capital.
On the global stage, the Ambassador reiterated China’s commitment to advancing the Global Governance Initiative (GGI), which emphasizes sovereign equality, international rule of law, multilateralism, people-centered development, and practical cooperation. He commended Nigeria’s recent endorsement of the initiative and pledged stronger collaboration under its framework.
Yu further stressed the strategic bond between Nigeria and China, noting the symbolic significance of both nations sharing the same National Day on October 1.
“It is a shared national memory that binds our people together,” he said.
Reflecting on 76 years of China’s development, Yu said the country has achieved rapid economic growth and long-term social stability, lifting over 800 million people out of poverty.
He reaffirmed China’s readiness to align with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s eight priority areas, promising more cooperative projects that drive shared prosperity.
In his remarks, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin congratulated China and praised its transformation into a global leader in innovation, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation.
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.
The event 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.
