The Ambassador of China to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has announced plans by Chinese companies to establish Africa’s first local insulin production facility in Nigeria.
Speaking at a grand reception in Abuja to mark the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Yu said the project would end Nigeria’s dependence on imported insulin and position the country as a hub for medical biotechnology in Africa.
He described the initiative as part of the growing Nigeria-China “comprehensive strategic partnership,” noting that the relationship continues to expand in political, economic, and cultural cooperation.
Yu highlighted China’s development achievements, including lifting more than 800 million people out of poverty and contributing over 30 percent to global economic growth in recent years. He stressed China’s readiness to share development opportunities with African countries, particularly Nigeria.
The envoy also praised Nigeria’s recent endorsement of China’s Global Governance Initiative (GGI), pledging deeper cooperation under the framework.
Reflecting on President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to China last year, Yu pointed to key projects such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port—expected to generate $360 billion in economic benefits and 170,000 jobs—and the Abuja Water Supply Project, which now provides clean water to nearly three million people.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, represented by Senator Babangida Hussaini, reaffirmed the strong ties between both nations, noting that their partnership has evolved into a strategic alliance visible in roads, railways, power plants, and industrial parks across Nigeria.
He expressed optimism about future collaborations through Nigeria’s 10-Year Development Plan and China’s Belt and Road Initiative, saying they would unlock “new opportunities for growth, connectivity, and shared prosperity.”
