National News

55 Years of Win-Win: Nigeria and China’s Growing Partnership

Published

1 month ago

February 6, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

55 Years of Win-Win: Nigeria and China’s Growing Partnership

By Raphael Oni

February 10, 2026, marks a significant milestone in Nigeria-China relations, as the two countries celebrate 55 years of diplomatic ties. Over the years, their partnership has blossomed into a comprehensive strategic cooperation, with China emerging as one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners and investors.

“China and Nigeria are entering a new phase in their bilateral relationship — one that aims to move beyond the traditional, trade-heavy dynamic towards a mutually beneficial development model,” said President Xi Jinping.

The relationship between Nigeria and China is built on mutual respect, trust, and cooperation. The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) has played a pivotal role in strengthening ties between China and Africa, including Nigeria. Established in 2000, FOCAC has provided a platform for China and African countries to discuss issues of mutual interest, promote economic cooperation, and enhance cultural exchanges.

“Over the years, China and Nigeria have built a strategic partnership anchored on mutual respect, shared aspirations and practical cooperation,” said Hon. Yakubu.

One of the key areas of cooperation between Nigeria and China is infrastructure development. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been instrumental in transforming Nigeria’s infrastructure landscape. The BRI has facilitated the construction of critical infrastructure projects, including the Abuja-Kaduna, Lagos-Ibadan, and Ibadan-Kano rail lines, as well as the expansion and modernization of Nigeria’s international airports.

“The synergy between Nigeria’s resource-rich economy and China’s technological prowess presents vast opportunities for cooperation in areas such as infrastructure development, trade, and security,” noted Ambassador Amedu Ode while speaking on the partnership between the two countries.

The Lekki Deep Seaport, a flagship BRI project, has become a game-changer for Nigeria’s economy, enhancing the country’s trade capacity and positioning it as a major logistics hub in West Africa. China’s investments in Nigeria’s infrastructure have not only improved transportation networks but also created jobs and stimulated economic growth.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with the People’s Republic of China following a courtesy visit by the Chargé d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy, Zhou Hongyou, to the Spokesperson of the Ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa, in his office recently. The Spokesperson in a chat with media said, “Nigeria have very cordial relations with the People’s Republic of China. It is a relationship based on mutual respect and cooperation in various areas that spans across economic, cultural, technological transfer etc to mention but few.” He noted that the relationship has direct impact on Nigeria economy, creating jobs, building capacity, technology transfer and many more.

Ebienfa said both sides reaffirmed at the meeting the shared commitment of Nigeria and China toward deepening diplomatic engagement, enhancing institutional cooperation and expanding people-to-people exchanges for mutual benefit. The discussions also focused on the importance of reciprocal visits, study tours and exposure programmes for diplomats to enhance mutual understanding, including short-term and specialized training programmes in governance, administration, strategic communication and public diplomacy. Reference was made to training initiatives coordinated by Chinese academic institutions, particularly Peking University, aimed at promoting experience-sharing among developing countries. “China is prepared to be a partner of Nigeria to stand up to challenges,” said Zhou Hongyou.

Nigeria and China have also strengthened their cooperation in the areas of trade, investment, and technology. China is Nigeria’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $21.89 billion in 2024. Nigeria exports crude oil, liquefied natural gas, and other commodities to China, while China exports machinery, electronics, and textiles to Nigeria.

In 2018, Nigeria and China signed a $2.4 billion currency swap deal, which has helped to boost trade and investment between the two countries. China has also established a number of industrial parks and special economic zones in Nigeria, providing a platform for Chinese companies to invest and operate in the country.

“The relationship between Nigeria and China has yielded tangible benefits for both countries, from infrastructure to technology, trade, education and cultural exchanges,” said Joseph Tegbe, Director-General of Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership.

In addition to economic cooperation, Nigeria and China have also strengthened their cultural and educational ties. China has established Confucius Institutes in several Nigerian universities, promoting Chinese language and culture. Nigeria and China have also signed agreements on cooperation in education, science, and technology. “Nigeria has consistently upheld the One-China principle as the basis of its relations with the People’s Republic of China,” stated the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership.

Nigeria and China have strengthened their bilateral ties, elevating their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in September 2024. This partnership aims to enhance cooperation in infrastructure, technology, education, and cultural exchanges.

Key Areas of Cooperation: China’s involvement in Nigeria spans multiple sectors, driving development across the country. While China maintains a policy of non-interference in Nigeria’s internal politics, its footprint is evident in various key areas. Let us examine the following:

Infrastructure Development: China has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s infrastructure growth, including the construction of roads, bridges, railways (e.g., Abuja-Kaduna and Lagos-Ibadan rail projects), and ports.

Economic Ties: Nigeria is China’s largest engineering contract recipient in Africa and its second-largest export market. Bilateral trade reached $21.89 billion in 2024, with China’s imports from Nigeria totaling $2.99 billion.

Energy and Power: China has invested in Nigeria’s energy sector, supporting projects like the Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Plant and providing solar energy solutions.

Belt and Road Initiative (BRI): Nigeria is a key partner in China’s BRI, with projects like the Lekki Deep Seaport enhancing Nigeria’s trade capacity and positioning it as a major logistics hub in West Africa.

Telecommunications: Chinese companies like Huawei and ZTE have played a major role in expanding Nigeria’s telecom infrastructure, including 4G networks and fibre-optic cables.

Manufacturing and Industrialization: China has established manufacturing hubs in Nigeria, focusing on industries like textiles, cement, and steel production.

Agriculture: China has supported Nigeria’s agricultural development through initiatives like the China-Nigeria Agricultural Technology Demonstration Centre.

Healthcare: China has contributed to Nigeria’s healthcare sector through medical infrastructure development, equipment supply, and training programs.

Education and Capacity Building: China offers scholarships and training programs for Nigerian professionals, promoting knowledge transfer and capacity development.

People-to-People Exchanges: The China-Nigeria Friendship Hospital in Abuja provides medical services to Nigerians, with 200,000 patient visits annually and training for over 1,000 medical professionals.

Strategic Partnership: The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership establishes cooperation in technology, education, and cultural exchanges, promoting mutual growth and global stability.

The diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China, established on February 10, 1971, have been marked by a series of high-level visits that underscore the deepening ties between the two nations. Over the years, these exchanges have fostered cooperation, mutual understanding, and robust partnerships.

“The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Nigeria and China is expected to drive economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance Nigeria’s global standing,” said Yu Dunhai, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria.

The comprehensive strategic partnership between Nigeria and China has yielded significant benefits for both countries. Nigeria has gained access to much-needed infrastructure financing and technical expertise, while China has secured a reliable source of energy and a growing market for its goods and services. As Nigeria and China look to the future, there are opportunities for further cooperation in areas such as agriculture, healthcare, and renewable energy. The two countries can also work together to promote regional integration and stability in Africa.

Chinese leaders have played a significant role in shaping the relationship. Vice Premier Geng Biao’s visit in October 1978 laid the groundwork for strengthened bilateral relations. This was followed by Vice Premier Huang Hua’s visit in November 1981, which further solidified ties. Vice Premier Tian Jiyun’s visit in November 1984 marked a significant milestone in economic cooperation. President Hu Jintao’s visits in 2004 and 2006 underscored China’s commitment to Nigeria’s development. Most recently, Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister, visited Nigeria in January 2025, highlighting the growing strategic partnership.

Nigerian leaders have also made significant contributions to the relationship. Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon’s visit in September 1974 was a pioneering step in Nigeria-China relations. President Olusegun Obasanjo’s visits in April 1999 and August 2001 strengthened economic ties. President Goodluck Jonathan’s state visit in July 2013 marked a significant milestone in bilateral cooperation. President Muhammadu Buhari’s visit in April 2018 further deepened ties. Vice President Kashim Shettima’s participation in the Third Belt and Road Forum in October 2023 highlighted Nigeria’s engagement with China’s global initiatives. President Bola Tinubu’s visit in September 2024, attending the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to the partnership.

These high-level visits have woven a tapestry of cooperation, driving progress in trade, investment, infrastructure, and cultural exchange. As Nigeria and China continue to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world, their partnership remains a beacon of mutual respect and shared aspirations. These visits have strengthened bilateral ties, with agreements signed on trade, investment, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange.

President Goodluck Jonathan’s 2013 visit led to agreements on a $1.1 billion loan for infrastructure projects, defense cooperation, economic and technical cooperation, and visa exemptions for diplomatic and official passport holders.

In January 2017, Wang Yi’s Visit to Nigeria, Nigeria signed the One China Principle, acknowledging Taiwan as part of China. Nigeria obtained a $40 billion investment pledge from China.

In April 2018, President Muhammadu Buhari‘s Visit to China and Signed agreements worth over $6 billion, including: $1 billion for the Ogun-Guangdong Free Trade Zone, $200 million for gas facilities, $478 million for a 300MW solar power project, $55 million for a granite mining plant, Agreed on a $2.4 billion currency swap deal.

In September 2024, Presidents Xi Jinping and Bola Tinubu announced the elevation of China-Nigeria relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. Agreements signed during the visits includes; Belt and Road Initiative cooperation, Nuclear energy cooperation, Human resource development, Media exchange and cooperation. His Excellency Wang Yi’s Visit to Nigeria in January 2025 witnessed discussion on cooperation in clean energy, defense, and finance, Nigeria and China agreed to expand the $2 billion currency swap agreement. “China’s commitment to Africa, including Nigeria, is guided by the principle of sincerity, real results, amity and good faith” said Ms. Yan Yuqing, Consul General in Nigeria.

Following President Tinubu’s visit to Beijing in September 2024, Nigeria established a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with China, with Joseph Tegbe serving as Director General. Tegbe’s extensive international experience has been a significant asset in strengthening China-Nigeria relations. He has led several strategic visits to China and hosted high-level Chinese delegations in Nigeria, contributing to the growth of the partnership between these fraternal nation.

One of the visit hosted by the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) included a high-powered delegation from the Central Party School of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in Abuja, marking a significant milestone in bilateral institutional cooperation. The visit focused on governance, public service reform, investment, and strategic development planning.

The Chinese delegation, led by Vice President of the Central Party School, Professor Gong Weibin, during the dicussion with the Director General of NCSP reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the One China Policy. Tegbe emphasized Nigeria’s desire to build a forward-looking development partnership founded on mutual respect, strategic coordination, and shared prosperity.

The Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Mr. Joseph Tegbe in one of his high-level working visit to China, secured key partnerships aimed at driving Nigeria’s development. During his visit, Mr. Tegbe engaged with prominent Chinese companies, exploring opportunities for industrial cooperation and strategic development projects.

These strategic engagements are part of NCSP’s broader mission to build transformative partnerships that leverage China’s technological expertise while addressing Nigeria’s development priorities. The partnerships are expected to drive economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance the quality of life for Nigerians.

The NCSP DG’s visit to China demonstrates the organization’s commitment to fostering mutually beneficial relationships between Nigeria and China. The partnerships secured during the visit are expected to have a significant impact on Nigeria’s development, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, healthcare, and environmental sustainability.

In conclusion, the multifaceted engagements between Nigeria and China, spanning governmental collaborations and people-to-people connections, underscore a robust foundation for bilateral relations. As a student of international relations, it’s evident that the strategic partnership between these two nations is poised for significant growth, driven by mutual interests and shared developmental goals.

The synergy between Nigeria’s resource-rich economy and China’s technological prowess presents vast opportunities for cooperation in areas such as infrastructure development, trade, and security. Moreover, the cultural exchanges and people-to-people diplomacy initiatives have fostered a sense of camaraderie and shared destiny between the two nations.

As Nigeria and China continue to navigate the complexities of global geopolitics, their partnership is likely to play a pivotal role in shaping regional and international dynamics. With a strong foundation in place, a brighter shared future for China-Nigeria relations seems not only plausible but inevitable, promising benefits for both nations and the broader global community.

Raphael Oni, a renowned Nigerian journalist, diplomatic correspondent, and media consultant with over two decades of experience covering national and international news, focusing on diplomacy, politics, and global affairs. He’s been dubbed the “Dean of Diplomatic Reporters” due to his extensive expertise in diplomatic reporting.

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National News

FG Declares Two-Day Public Holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr

Published

1 day ago

March 17, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

FG Declares Two-Day Public Holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government has declared Thursday, March 19 and Friday, March 20, 2026, as public holidays to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Fitr celebration.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who congratulated Muslim faithful across the country on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Federal Government, the minister urged Muslims to uphold the core values of love, generosity, peace, tolerance, and sacrifice, which define the Ramadan period. He emphasized the need for Nigerians to reflect on these virtues beyond the fasting season as part of efforts to build a more harmonious society.

Tunji-Ojo also called on citizens, regardless of religious affiliation, to use the festive period to pray for national peace, unity, and sustained progress, noting that collective responsibility remains key to the country’s stability.

He further encouraged Nigerians to celebrate responsibly and extend kindness to the less privileged, in line with the spirit of the season.

The declaration underscores the government’s continued commitment to promoting unity and peaceful coexistence in the country, as millions of Muslims prepare to celebrate one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar.

FG Declares Two-Day Public Holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr

National News

Nigeria–UK Investment Surge to Generate Jobs, Deepen Economic Ties

Published

1 day ago

March 17, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Nigeria–UK Investment Surge to Generate Jobs, Deepen Economic Ties

By: Michael Mike

A new wave of multi-million-pound investments by Nigerian and British firms is set to create hundreds of jobs in both countries, reinforcing growing economic ties and positioning Nigeria as an emerging driver of global innovation and capital.

The investment push comes ahead of the state visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the United Kingdom, where both nations are expected to consolidate gains under the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), a framework aimed at boosting cooperation across key sectors.

At the centre of the development is an aggressive expansion by Nigerian banks and fintech companies into the UK market, alongside renewed commitments by British firms to scale operations in Nigeria.

In a major boost to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, Twinings Ovaltine has unveiled a £24 million production facility in Lagos—its first on the African continent. The plant is projected to create over 100 direct jobs while strengthening export capacity across West Africa.

Nigeria’s financial institutions are also increasing their global footprint. Zenith Bank has launched a new branch in Manchester, with plans to generate dozens of jobs and deepen trade links between Africa and the UK. The bank is also considering a future listing on the London Stock Exchange as part of its long-term expansion strategy.

Likewise, Fidelity Bank is expanding its UK presence following the rebranding of Union Bank UK to FidBank UK, with plans to significantly grow its workforce and capital base. Other players such as FCMB are leveraging the UK as a strategic hub to roll out cross-border payment platforms aimed at facilitating trade between Africa and the global market.

The fintech sector is driving a substantial share of the new investments. LemFi has committed £100 million over five years, designating London as its global headquarters, while Moniepoint plans to expand its UK workforce to 100 employees by 2026. Digital bank Kuda Bank is also scaling up its UK operations as it eyes broader international growth.

Beyond finance and technology, the creative industry is emerging as another pillar of collaboration. EbonyLife is set to establish EbonyLife Place London, a move expected to create new jobs while amplifying African storytelling on a global stage.

Officials say the growing investment flows highlight increasing confidence in both economies. UK authorities point to the country’s stable regulatory environment and access to global capital, while Nigeria’s expanding digital and creative sectors continue to attract international interest.

Education and skills development are also receiving attention, with new partnerships between institutions such as the University of Birmingham and the University of Lagos focusing on cutting-edge fields including artificial intelligence, digital technology, and healthcare innovation.

With bilateral trade now estimated at £8.1 billion annually, analysts say the latest round of investments signals a shift in UK–Nigeria relations—from traditional trade to a more dynamic partnership driven by innovation, talent, and shared economic ambition.

The coming days are expected to yield further announcements as both governments seek to unlock new opportunities capable of delivering long-term growth and job creation for their citizens.

Nigeria–UK Investment Surge to Generate Jobs, Deepen Economic Ties

National News

Babani assumes office as LCBC chief, pledges stronger regional security, cooperation

Published

2 days ago

March 17, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Babani assumes office as LCBC chief, pledges stronger regional security, cooperation

By: Zagazola Makama

The newly appointed Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) and Head of Mission of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Amb. Ibrahim Babani, has pledged to strengthen regional collaboration to tackle security and developmental challenges in the Lake Chad Basin.

In his inaugural address, Babani underscored the importance of strengthening the MNJTF, the regional military coalition tasked with combating insurgency in the Lake Chad Basin.

He called for increased collaboration among troop-contributing countries and greater support from international partners, noting that sustained joint operations remain essential to degrading terrorist networks operating across porous borders.

He expressed gratitude to the Chairman of the LCBC Summit of Heads of State and Government, Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, President of Chad, for supporting his nomination by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as other member states for endorsing his emergence.

Babani emphasised that peace and security would remain a top priority of his administration, particularly through enhanced support for the MNJTF, a regional military coalition combating insurgency in the Lake Chad Basin.

He called on troop-contributing countries to sustain active participation in joint operations, while also urging international partners to scale up support for counter-terrorism efforts.

Babani’s emphasis on strengthening the MNJTF reflects growing concerns over renewed insurgent activities across the Lake Chad region, especially in border communities spanning Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Cameroon.

The new LCBC boss paid tribute to his predecessor, Amb. Mamman Nuhu, acknowledging his leadership in stabilising the commission and advancing its core mandates.

Babani pledged to sustain and build on these achievements, while introducing reforms aimed at improving efficiency, transparency and institutional performance.

He also disclosed plans to engage member states on the recovery of outstanding financial contributions, a move seen as vital for funding regional programmes and sustaining operations of the commission.

Babani has emphasised teamwork, dialogue and collaboration as guiding principles of his leadership, expressing confidence in the capacity of the LCBC and MNJTF teams to overcome prevailing challenges.

He also pledged to uphold due process and ensure inclusivity in decision-making, noting that collective ownership of the commission’s goals would drive its success.

Beyond security, Babani pointed out key priorities of the LCBC, including sustainable management of shared water resources, environmental conservation, regional economic integration and conflict prevention.

These areas are critical to addressing the root causes of instability in the Lake Chad Basin, where climate change, shrinking water resources and economic hardship have contributed to displacement and insecurity.

Development partners, including the European Union, the African Development Bank and the German development agency (GIZ), were acknowledged for their continued support to the commission’s programmes.

Babani’s investiture in N’Djamena, Republic of Chad, signals not just a change in leadership, but a renewed commitment by member states to confront the complex challenges confronting the basin through collective action and strengthened partnerships.

The Lake Chad Basin, shared by Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Cameroon, has for over a decade remained at the epicentre of insurgency driven by extremist groups, alongside the devastating impact of climate change and dwindling water resources.

These challenges have combined to displace millions, disrupt livelihoods and strain already fragile governance structures across the region.
The dual role of Babani as head of both the LCBC and MNJTF places him at the intersection of security coordination and development planning—two critical pillars for stabilising the region.

Stakeholders noted that effective coordination among member states and sustained international backing remain critical to consolidating recent gains against terrorist groups. They argue that enhanced intelligence sharing, logistics support and joint planning will be crucial in maintaining pressure on such groups.

Beyond security, Babani highlighted the need to tackle underlying drivers of conflict, including poverty, unemployment, environmental degradation and competition over shrinking natural resources. The LCBC’s mandate, which spans water resource management, ecosystem conservation and economic cooperation, is seen as critical in addressing these issues.

Stakeholders say aligning these interventions with security efforts will be key to achieving sustainable peace in the region.

As Babani takes over the reins, expectations are high that his tenure will consolidate gains in regional security while advancing development initiatives that address the root causes of instability.

The Lake Chad Basin remains a region of strategic importance, not only for its member states but for the broader Sahel and West African sub-region.

How effectively the LCBC under Babani navigates the interplay between security and development may well shape the future of millions of people whose lives depend on the restoration of peace, stability and economic opportunity.

Babani assumes office as LCBC chief, pledges stronger regional security, cooperation