Stakeholders in diplomacy, academia, and the media have refuted claims of hidden motives in China’s relationship with Africa, asserting that China has demonstrated genuine partnership and support for the continent’s development.
They expressed these views during the Media Executives Forum and Book Launch at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja, where seasoned diplomatic journalist Raphael Oni unveiled his book, Balancing the Narrative: China-Africa Relations. The event drew diplomats, media professionals, and scholars who examined the evolving role and perception of China in Africa.
Oni, who recently participated in a media training programme in China, described his book as the culmination of research and personal experience.
“There is a gap in understanding China’s role in Africa, with much misinformation, particularly from Western media. This book seeks to correct that,” Oni said. As Editor-in-Chief of Diplomatic Extra, a publication focused on foreign affairs and diplomacy, Oni underscored China’s contributions in infrastructure, education, and technology—citing examples like roads, railways, and airports built with Chinese support, as well as capacity-building programmes that send Nigerian professionals and students to China.
Speaking at the event, the Director of the Centre for Chinese Studies in Nigeria, Mr. Charles Onunaiju, lauded Oni’s work for fostering knowledge-based cooperation.
“There are many myths around China-Africa relations, but what we need is accurate information and a deeper understanding,” Onunaiju noted.
Also addressing the forum, Mr. Christopher Isiguzo, President of the African Union of Journalists and former President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, urged Nigerian leaders to draw inspiration from China’s approach to development.
“China’s progress is underpinned by long-term planning and a clear national vision. We can learn valuable lessons from that,” he said.
Diplomatic representatives from the High Commissions of Sierra Leone and Malaysia, as well as the Ambassador of Mexico to Nigeria, offered goodwill messages. They commended the book and stressed the importance of cultural and media exchanges in strengthening international partnerships.
Participants called for closer collaboration between African and Chinese media outlets to present balanced, accurate narratives and foster mutual understanding. They urged African journalists to take a leading role in shaping the continent’s image by sharing authentic, experience-based stories.
The forum concluded with a consensus that China remains a steadfast ally in Africa’s development efforts, and that countering misinformation through responsible journalism is crucial for deepening bilateral ties.
