China has reaffirmed Nigeria’s strategic importance in its African agenda, citing the country as one of its most dependable allies on the continent.
During the 75th anniversary celebration of the founding of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, emphasized Nigeria’s role as China’s largest project contracting market, second-largest export market, third-largest trading partner, and a key investment hub in Africa.
“Bilateral trade between China and Nigeria reached $22.5 billion in 2023,” Yu stated, adding that the relationship has yielded substantial outcomes in infrastructure, investment, trade, agriculture, and green economy.
Since establishing diplomatic ties in 1971, China and Nigeria have enjoyed a strong friendship marked by high-level engagements, deepened political trust, and increased cooperation across various sectors. Ambassador Yu highlighted China’s broader global influence, noting the nation’s contributions to poverty alleviation, economic development, and global growth, particularly over the past decade.
“China has lifted nearly 100 million people out of poverty, and in the last ten years, contributed over 30% to global economic growth,” he said.
Yu also spoke of China’s long-term vision, aiming to become a prosperous, modern socialist country by 2049.
Nigeria’s Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, joined in the celebration, praising China’s growth and achievements. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through the China-Nigeria Parliamentary Friendship Group, focusing on trade, technology transfer, infrastructure, and cultural exchange.
The PRC was officially founded on October 1, 1949, following the Communist victory in China’s civil war under the leadership of Mao Zedong.
