Nigeria Vows to Strengthen 50-Year-old Ties with China

In a bid to foster stronger economic cooperation, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has pledged to nurture and promote the country’s 50-year-old relationship with China. The commitment came during a meeting with Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Chen Xiaodong, at the State House in Abuja.

Tinubu emphasized the importance of mutual commitment to values such as labor, understanding, and development in the bilateral relationship. He also welcomed China’s support for Nigeria’s bid to gain a more prominent position in the G20, UN Security Council, and the intergovernmental organisation of developing economies, BRICS.

Noting China’s remarkable transformation and development, Tinubu expressed admiration for the country’s rapid growth and technological advancement. He highlighted the need for Nigeria and China to collaborate and transfer knowledge, skill, and technology to accelerate development in Nigeria.

The president also commended Chinese President Xi Jinping for his efforts in Africa, particularly in mobilizing capital for projects that positively impact the lives and livelihoods of Africans. He thanked Xi Jinping for an invitation to visit China and expressed willingness to discuss mutual benefits and promote a cordial relationship.

In his remarks, the Chinese Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chen Xiaodong, congratulated Tinubu on his re-election as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government and praised the Nigerian leader’s strategic vision in Africa. He expressed hope that the meeting between the two leaders would open up new discussions and opportunities for Nigeria and Africa.

The strengthening of bilateral ties between Nigeria and China is expected to facilitate increased cooperation in areas such as trade, infrastructure development, and capacity building, ultimately enhancing the economic prospects and competitiveness of both nations.