By Atoyebi Nike
China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Nigeria, describing the relationship as a growing “comprehensive strategic partnership” with expanding political, economic, and cultural dimensions.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday at a reception to mark the 76th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China, Dunhai said 2025 was a pivotal year for China’s development, Africa-China relations, and global diplomacy.
“The Chinese nation’s great rejuvenation has entered an irreversible historical trend,” the envoy said, pointing to China’s rapid economic growth and long-term stability over the past seven decades. He also cited poverty reduction as a milestone, noting that over 800 million people have been lifted out of poverty, calling it a “Chinese poverty alleviation miracle.”
The ambassador praised Nigeria’s endorsement of China’s Global Governance Initiative (GGI) and pledged support for the country’s greater international role. He also highlighted joint projects such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port, projected to generate $360 billion in economic benefits and 170,000 jobs over 45 years, and the Abuja Water Supply Project, which now provides clean water for nearly three million residents.
He disclosed that Chinese companies are in talks to build Africa’s first local insulin production facility in Nigeria, a project he said could reduce reliance on imports and make the country a hub for African medical biotechnology.
Underscoring cultural ties, Dunhai celebrated Nigeria’s first female train driver trained in China, Issah Abiola, honoured with China’s Friendship Envoy Award. He also welcomed the Nigerian government’s recent inclusion of the Chinese language in the senior secondary school curriculum.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, represented by Senator Babangida Hussaini, hailed China’s investments in roads, railways, power, and industrial parks, noting that the relationship has become a vital driver of Nigeria’s modernization. He said President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to China marked a turning point, consolidating shared goals under Nigeria’s 10-Year Development Plan and China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
“Thousands of young Nigerians today are studying in China, acquiring knowledge and skills that will shape the future of our country. Similarly, Nigerian culture is finding appreciative audiences in China,” Jibrin added.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to aligning cooperation with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope agenda, while strengthening parliamentary diplomacy, trade, and people-to-people exchanges.
