The Nigerian government has commemorated the 55th anniversary of its establishment of diplomatic relations with China, reaffirming its commitment to deepening the longstanding partnership between the two countries.
In a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria described the relationship, which dates back to 1971, as one founded on mutual respect, solidarity, and a shared commitment to common development.
Over the decades, the partnership has evolved into a comprehensive strategic relationship marked by robust political dialogue, expanding economic cooperation, and vibrant cultural exchanges.
Nigeria highlighted significant Chinese cooperation in key sectors, including infrastructure, energy, telecommunications, agriculture, and human capacity development.
Landmark projects such as the Lagos–Ibadan Railway, the Abuja–Kaduna Railway, and several road networks were cited as tangible outcomes of the collaboration, contributing to socio-economic growth and improved livelihoods.
The ministry noted that bilateral ties are further strengthened by growing trade volumes, strong people-to-people relations, and close coordination on regional and global issues, particularly within the frameworks of the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the United Nations.
Also Read: Nigeria, China Reaffirm Commitment to Bilateral Partnership
As part of the anniversary celebrations, the 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 the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2024, both countries have deepened political trust and achieved fruitful results across multiple areas of cooperation.
Ambassador Tuggar, in his response, described China as an important strategic partner to Nigeria, noting that bilateral cooperation has continued to deepen in various fields.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s resolve to expand exchanges and explore new areas of collaboration in line with the foreign policy objectives of both nations.
The Nigerian government expressed confidence that Nigeria–China relations will continue to grow stronger in the coming years, delivering mutual benefits and contributing to peace, stability, and prosperity in Africa and beyond.