In a significant diplomatic move, Chinese leader President Xi Jinping has extended an invitation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to pay a state visit to China in September. The invitation was delivered by China’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chen Xiaodong, at the Aso Villa on Thursday.
President Tinubu accepted the invitation, expressing hope that it would strengthen Nigeria-China bilateral relations and the proposed currency swap agreement. “For us, it is a new beginning with you. A relationship that has lasted over 50 years must be nourished, nurtured, and promoted,” President Tinubu said.
He commended President Xi Jinping for his commitment to strengthening relations with Nigeria and Africa, saying, “We believe in our bilateral relations, and we want to strengthen that… China is one of those who respect our values.”
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President Tinubu also welcomed China’s support for Nigeria’s bid for a more prominent position in international organizations such as the G20, UN Security Council, and BRICS. “We believe in ourselves. We are determined to enhance the values of our people,” he said.
The President highlighted the potential for increased collaboration in areas such as infrastructure development, technology transfer, and skill development programs. “The infrastructure need of Africa is monumental, particularly that of Nigeria. You have good technology that you can transfer… We have a very vibrant youth population, well-educated, and ready to learn.”
The visit, scheduled for September, is expected to further solidify the Nigeria-China relationship, with First Lady Remi Tinubu also invited to join the delegation.