Nigeria and China have agreed to explore more opportunities in trade, infrastructure, agriculture, energy, and parliamentary diplomacy to advance their blossoming ties.
Officials of the two countries spoke on Wednesday in Abuja when the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria hosted a reception in Abuja to mark the 76th anniversary of the country’s founding.
At the event, senior government officials, legislators, diplomats and business leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Nigeria-China ties.
In his keynote address, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria Yu Dunhai highlighted the historical coincidence of China’s National Day and Nigeria’s Independence Day, both celebrated on October 1. He described this as “a shared national memory that binds our two peoples together.”
The envoy recalled China’s development trajectory over the past seven decades, including the lifting of 800 million people out of poverty, sustained GDP growth, and contributions to global development.
“China stands firmly on the right side of history and human progress, upholding the banners of peace, development, cooperation and mutual benefit,” Yu said.
Yu underscored Beijing’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Nigeria through the Global Governance Initiative (GGI) and trade, infrastructure, health and education.
He cited ongoing projects such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port, projected to generate $360 billion in economic benefits and 170,000 jobs, the Abuja Water Supply Project, providing clean water to three million residents and talks on establishing Africa’s first local insulin production facility in Nigeria.
Yu also hailed growing people-to-people exchanges, noting the story of Isa Fatima Abiola, Nigeria’s first female train driver trained in China and a young Kano student, Ibrahim Ismail, who has impressed audiences with his fluent Mandarin.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the deputy Senate president, Senator Babangida Hussaini praised China’s transformation as “a story of hope and a testament to what is possible when people unite behind a clear vision.”
He emphasised that the Nigeria-China partnership has blossomed into a comprehensive strategic partnership, visible in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, defence and cultural exchange.
He said: “Our two nations cherish the values of sovereignty, dignity and renewal. This coincidence of national days has become a powerful emblem of solidarity. Together, Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda and China’s Belt and Road Initiative open new opportunities for growth, connectivity, and shared prosperity.”
The Nigerian lawmakers at the event also pledged stronger parliamentary diplomacy with China’s National People’s Congress, ensuring transparency and sustainability in bilateral projects.
The event featured cultural performances from a visiting Shenzhen arts delegation, drawing applause from the diplomatic community and guests.
