The Nigerian government has celebrated the 55th anniversary of its diplomatic ties with China, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening the enduring partnership between the two nations.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria described its relations with China, which began in 1971, as grounded in mutual respect, solidarity, and a shared focus on development.
Over the years, the relationship has grown into a comprehensive strategic partnership, underpinned by active political dialogue, expanding economic collaboration, and vibrant cultural exchanges.
Key areas of cooperation highlighted by Nigeria include infrastructure, energy, telecommunications, agriculture, and human capacity development. Projects such as the Lagos–Ibadan Railway, the Abuja–Kaduna Railway, and several major road networks were cited as tangible examples of the bilateral collaboration, enhancing socio-economic development and improving livelihoods.
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The ministry noted that strong trade volumes, people-to-people exchanges, and joint action on regional and global matters particularly within the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the United Nations—further reinforce the partnership.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, exchanged congratulatory messages with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi.
In his message, Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said: “China and Nigeria have consistently supported each other over the past 55 years, regardless of changes in the international environment.” He added that since establishing a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2024, the two countries have strengthened political trust and achieved notable results across multiple areas of cooperation.
Ambassador Tuggar, in response, described China as a key strategic partner and pledged that Nigeria would continue to broaden exchanges and explore new avenues of collaboration, in line with the foreign policy goals of both nations.
The Nigerian government expressed confidence that the bilateral relationship will continue to grow, delivering mutual benefits and promoting peace, stability, and prosperity across Africa and beyond.
