By Omonu YG Nelson
China and Nigeria’s enduring friendship has been a cornerstone of China-Africa relations, with bilateral trade reaching $23.9 billion in 2022 and nearing $5.4 billion in the first quarter of 2023 ¹.
This robust partnership was celebrated in Abuja, yesterday, at an elaborate event organised by China Media Group (CMG) to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) ².
At the event theme, “Written in the Sky, My China Story,” Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. YU Dunhai, emphasised the significance of China-Africa relations, stating, “China cherishes its long-standing friendship with Nigeria… Our relations have stood the test of changes in the international landscape and grown from strength to strength.”
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He noted that China and Nigeria have enjoyed diplomatic ties since February 10, 1971, and have been at the forefront of China-Africa relations ².
Also in a speech, Chairman of the House Committee on Nigeria-China Relations, Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu, emphasised the remarkable progress made by China and Nigeria through their partnership, built on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared prosperity.
He highlighted China’s significant investments in Nigeria and Africa, driving economic growth, job creation, and infrastructure development. The Belt and Road Initiative, in particular, impressed Yakubu, with its potential to transform the global economy and bring prosperity to many [Speech by Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu].
This sentiment is echoed by President Bola Tinubu, who recently received Chinese Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chen Xiaodong. President Tinubu praised the partnership between Nigeria and China, emphasizing the importance of nourishing and promoting their 50-year relationship ¹. He also welcomed China’s support for Nigeria’s prominent position in international organizations like the G20 and BRICS.
Nigeria and China have made significant strides in cooperation, including a $3.3 billion deal to develop the Brass Industrial Park and Methanol Complex in Bayelsa State ². Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has also lauded China as a valuable partner, highlighting successful collaborations in renewable energy, healthcare, and education
As Nigeria and China celebrate their growing partnership, they reaffirm their commitment to strengthening their relationship. By working together, they aim to address continental challenges and build a more prosperous and sustainable future for all. In Yakubu’s words, “Let us reaffirm our commitment to strengthening the China-Nigeria partnership. By working together, we can build a brighter future for our two nations and contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous world.”
Paul Tembe, founder and director of SELE Encounters, praised CMG for combating negative media narratives about China, successfully sharing the African story in a way that resonates with African realities ².
Tembe stressed the importance of scholars engaging with cross-cultural communication, promoting mutual understanding and win-win cooperation between China and Africa.
On his part, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, praised China Media Group’s efforts to foster cultural and linguistic exchange between Nigeria and China at the “Written in the Sky: My China Story” global solicitation results ceremony on September 17, 2024 ¹. This initiative aims to leverage modern communication channels to strengthen the bonds between the two nations.
Idris emphasised the vital role media outlets play in guiding society, promoting mutual understanding, and contributing to societal, economic, and cultural progress ¹. He commended China Media Group for delivering accurate news and producing programs that positively influence the development of both Nigeria and China.
However, Idris noted the importance of maintaining balance in news reporting, particularly when showcasing national progress and achievements ¹. He stressed the need to create content that inspires hope and drives aspirations for future growth.
The minister acknowledged the challenges posed by advances in technology, including the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation ¹. He emphasized the need for cooperation to tackle this issue and eliminate it.
Nigeria and China have made significant strides in bilateral relations, signing agreements on media exchange and collaboration during the recent Forum of China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) ¹. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a staunch advocate for press freedom, has played a crucial role in promoting democracy in Nigeria.
The two nations have a long history of cooperation, with China becoming one of Nigeria’s key trading partners ¹. Their partnership has led to significant investments in infrastructure development, including the Abuja-Kaduna Railway and the Lekki Free Trade Zone.
Mubarak Aliyu, a graduate of a Chinese University and employee of the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, highlighted the importance of understanding China, its people, culture, and expectations
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