International

Chinese Modernization And China’s 75 Years of Poverty Reduction Achievements

Published

3 weeks ago

November 4, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Chinese Modernization And China’s 75 Years of Poverty Reduction Achievements

By Dr. Bridget Chiedu Onochie

It would be practically impossible to talk about Chinese modernization and the phenomenal poverty reduction without mentioning the impressive and development–driven reforms initiated by the Communist Party of China (CPC).

Over the past 75 years of its history, China was said to have lifted over 800 million people out of extreme poverty – a feat that was historically unprecedented and documented for accounting for about 75 per cent of global poverty reduction between 1981 and 2020.

This attainment was achieved through decades of speedy economic growth and comprehensive reforms, which began in the late 1970s. With its attendant improvement in living standards, developed infrastructure and increased incomes, China was able to meet the goals of the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by 2021, a decade earlier than the target year.

This development best defines ‘Chinese modernization’ – the political will of Chinese government to transform the economy, the society and the mode of governance for national rejuvenation and prosperity. Thus, the CPC government resolved to vigorously pursue economic reconstruction, high-quality development with focus on innovations, sustainability and efficiency-driven growth.
Chinese modernization equally involves technological advancements and global economic influence; which China obviously flourishes across the globe.

Through its modernization process, the living standard of its citizens have been enhanced with glaring reforms in education and healthcare. Meanwhile, a comprehensive social safety net, social services, state capacity strengthening, transparent legal system and promotion of traditional Chinese culture alongside modern values, were entrenched as national norms.

Consequently, different countries of the world, including Nigeria, seek to adopt the Chinese modernization model for accelerated development. The country’s ability to transform from extreme poverty to socio-economic stability built on the foundational principle and philosophical ideology that it is only through the empowerment of citizens for future self-reliance that a country can be better, has become a reference point for developing nations of the world.

While people wonder about the secret of Chinese success, history credited the poverty reduction prowess to two major pillars – Broad-based Economic Transformation, and Targeted Support for Areas and Households Disadvantaged by Geography and Lack of Opportunities.

By these, the government focused on national development policies with poverty reduction as a defining purpose, and through it, the government was able to deliver a well-targeted programs for the poor in an inclusive manner, that guaranteed balanced development between rural and urban areas – a holistic strategy of growth backed by political will.

In his presentation titled, ‘The War Against Poverty and the People Centered Accurate Poverty Alleviation, Mr. Wang Sangui of China Anti-Poverty Research Institute, Renmin University, China (RUC), stated that between 1981 and 2015, China’s poverty rate decreased from 88 per cent to less than one per cent, based on the percentage of people living on the equivalent of $1.90 or less per day.

The per-capita income was also recorded to rise from $200 in 1990 to $1,000 in 2000, and to $5,000 in 2010, moving China from a low-income country to a middle-income country.”
The Chinese modernization project was so consistent and resilient that in 2018, the number of people living below the national poverty line of ¥2,300 per year was 16.6 million, which is less than two per cent of the population and by 2020, China proudly announced eradication of absolute poverty, having successfully lifted over 800 million people out of poverty.

Since then, the country has remained committed to sustained growth and substantial increase in living standards.
The beauty of Chinese modernisation is the long term poverty alleviation strategy, driven by sustained fast economic growth, which played a key role in rural reforms, agricultural development, labour-intensive manufacturing and employment, urbanization and rural-urban migration.

A major striking lesson was the Accurately Targeted Poverty Alleviation approach initiated by President Xi Jinping during his visit to Western Hunan in November 2013. The policy stipulated that poverty alleviation should be practical and realistic, and it directly aimed at helping the poor by targeting poor households and poor people.
To implement this policy, Chinese government did not adopt or shout any slogan or set ambitious goals. Rather, it documented public opinions on innovative mechanisms that solidly promoted rural poverty alleviation and development.

In fact, this is the basic strategy in the war against poverty because through accurate identification, assistance, management and assessment of poor households and villages, government guided meticulously, the optimal allocation of various poverty alleviation resources, and with this, the country achieved poverty alleviation from village to household, and gradually built a long-term mechanism for targeted poverty alleviation.

The process began with identifying and registering the poor. Consequently, all families, whose income was lower than the poverty line and could not meet the ‘Two Assurances and Three Guarantees’ (adequate food and clothing, and access to compulsory education, basic medical services and safe housing for impoverished rural residents) were identified and registered through quantitative identification and controlled democratic appraisal to reduce omissions.

At the end of the exercise, China identified 29.48 million poor households with a total population of 89.62 million in 2013. The ability to register all the poor households and population with accurate details about each family, its available resources, income sources and reasons of poverty, was laudable and worthy of emulation.

Under the second strategy which was ‘Precision Poverty Alleviation Strategy’, the government intensified promotion of income-generation activities, including cooperative agricultural production, value chain development as well as rural tourism development that target the poor. Additionally, interest-free loans were provided for poor households. No wonder China has become a preferred destination for most people across the globe.

For African leaders, China remained a role model for youth empowerment and job creation – providing skill training, subsidized transportation cost, job market information and assisting the poor through medical and health services. Government’s provision of a comprehensive coverage and differentiated subsidies of basic medical insurance – serious illness insurance and serious illness relief without demand for deposit, speak volume of sustainable reforms.

As many developing countries of the world wallow under food insecurity, China succeeded in achieving food security because it understood the power of providing the backward integration for heavy industries as well as exploiting every single layer of the value supply chain. It doesn’t believe in weaponisation of poverty for political sentiment.

However, another striking and interesting aspect of Chinese modernization was captured vividly by President Xi Jinping in his Keynote Address at the opening ceremony of the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in 2023. He made it clear that China was endeavoring to build itself into a stronger country and rejuvenate the Chinese nation on all fronts by pursuing Chinese modernization, which was not self-serving but for all developing countries of the world.

He however declared that the modernization China was pursuing was not personal but for all developing countries through joint efforts. He believed that global modernization should be pursued to enhance peaceful development and mutually beneficial cooperation and bring prosperity to all.

He assured of China’s willingness to work with all parties to deepen Belt and Road partnerships of cooperation, usher the cooperation into a new stage of high-quality development, and make relentless efforts to achieve modernization for all countries.
Since the beginning of the reform that herald the opening up of China, the government has canvassed a world where development is even, peace inevitable and the future, where the world is a community where every player is a winner.

In all that China has achieved and is still achieving, credit must be given to its government for entrenching strong institutions. Otherwise, even noble ideas and policies would have been futile.
Through strong institutions, the government enforced policies in every sector of the economy. In agriculture and food security, it eliminated the systemic obstacles to farmers’ land ownership and consequently, rural infrastructure improved, while education and healthcare services also thrived.

The fact that poverty reduction in China accelerated over time was an indication that the strategy of taking tailor-made measures against poverty is successful and effective, and should be emulated by other developing countries burdened by poverty.

Beyond the immediate environment, China’s eradication of extreme poverty has global benefits, having contributed to the world achieving the Millennium Development Goals set for 2015. China by that, attained the first UN Sustainable Development Goal target 1.1. of eradicating extreme poverty ten years ahead of schedule, and undeniable fact remains that ever since the reform began, the pace of poverty reduction in China has been consistently faster than anywhere across the globe.

Chinese Modernization And China’s 75 Years of Poverty Reduction Achievements

Related Topics:Chinese Modernization And China’s 75 Years

Up Next

Troops humiliate ISWAP in Malam Fatori, neutralized several fighters as it repel dawn attack

Don't Miss

Adamawa: NCC sensitises stakeholders on copyright laws

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Click to comment

International

United Kingdom, Canada, Australia Launch Campaign Against Visa Fraud

Published

22 hours ago

November 24, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

United Kingdom, Canada, Australia Launch Campaign Against Visa Fraud

By: Michael Mike

The Diplomatic Missions of the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia have announced the launch of a coordinated international campaign to combat visa fraud and protect people from exploitation by fraudulent immigration facilitators.

According to a statement on Monday, the #FightingVisaFraud campaign was launched during International Fraud Awareness Week (16-22 November) and represents an unprecedented level of cooperation between the three countries to tackle a shared global threat that costs victims millions of pounds annually and puts vulnerable people at risk of exploitation, financial ruin and legal consequences.

The statement read: “Visa fraud and illegal immigration facilitation have reached alarming levels globally, with criminal networks using increasingly sophisticated tactics to deceive prospective visa applicants. Victims are often promised guaranteed visas, jobs without proper qualifications, or expedited processing in exchange for exorbitant fees. The reality is financial loss, visa refusals, travel bans and, in the worst cases, trafficking and exploitation.

“Our countries have identified common patterns of visa fraud affecting their immigration systems. This coordinated campaign demonstrates the three countries’ commitment to protecting legitimate visa applicants while maintaining the integrity of their immigration systems and secure borders.”

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery said: “Visa fraud destroys dreams and devastates families. Criminal facilitators prey on people’s legitimate aspirations for a better life, stealing their money and putting them at risk of serious harm. Through this joint campaign with our international partners, we are sending a clear message: use only official channels, verify all advice, and report suspicious activity. The UK welcomes legitimate visa applications through proper routes – but those who attempt fraud face serious consequences, including 10-year travel bans.”

Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Pasquale Salvaggio added: “Canada is committed to working with our international partners to combat visa fraud and protect people from exploitation. This campaign reflects our shared values and determination to maintain fair, secure immigration systems while supporting those who seek to travel, study or work through legitimate pathways.”

The statement added: Our three countries urge prospective visa applicants to: Use only official government websites for visa information and applications; Verify immigration advisers are properly registered and regulated; Be suspicious of guarantees, no one can guarantee visa approval; Watch for warning signs including demands for excessive fees, pressure to pay quickly, promises of jobs without proper qualifications, or offers to bypass standard requirements; Report suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.

The statement advised applicants seeking legitimate information to visit: www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration (United Kingdom); immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada – Canada.ca (Canada)

The statement warned that people who attempt to obtain a visa through fraudulent means face serious consequences, including visa application refusal, travel bans of up to 10 years, financial loss with no recourse, criminal charges in some jurisdictions, and exploitation and trafficking risks, noting that the three countries’ immigration authorities work closely with law enforcement to investigate and prosecute visa fraud and illegal facilitation.

United Kingdom, Canada, Australia Launch Campaign Against Visa Fraud

International

Algeria Calls for Continued Development, Stronger Ties with Nigeria

Published

6 days ago

November 19, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Algeria Calls for Continued Development, Stronger Ties with Nigeria

By: Michael Mike

Algeria’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Hocine Mezoued has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to sustainable development and stronger ties with Nigeria.

He gave the commitment in Abuja at the commemoration of the 71st anniversary of the outbreak of the National Liberation Struggle and Algeria’s National Day celebration.

The event drew senior representatives of the Nigerian government, members of the diplomatic corps, legislators, and other distinguished guests.

In his address, Ambassador Mezoued paid homage to the more than five million Algerian martyrs who lost their lives during the 132-year anti-colonial struggle, noting that the November Revolution remains “an inexhaustible source of pride and patriotism” for the Algerian people.

He emphasized that Algeria’s victory in securing independence in 1962 laid the groundwork for a nation strongly focused on development. He said: “Since its independence, Algeria has implemented national strategies and major development projects that have yielded remarkable achievements in human, economic, social, and environmental spheres.”

The envoy while underlining the country’s economic strength, noted that Algeria is currently the third-largest economy in Africa, with a GDP estimated at around US$300 billion, and projections to reach US$400 billion by 2027, backed by positive macroeconomic indicators.

He stated that despite its economic ambitions, Algeria has maintained its social welfare commitments, claiming that citizens continue to enjoy free access to education and healthcare, along with government-supported efforts to ensure decent housing for all.

Mezoued’s message highlighted both the historical significance of Algeria’s struggle for independence and the nation’s forward-looking drive toward modernization and prosperity.

On his part, the Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas expressed the country’s commitment to deepening diplomatic and parliamentary cooperation with Algeria as both nations continue to strengthen their longstanding ties.

The Speaker, who was represented by the Chairman of the Nigeria–Algeria Parliamentary Friendship Group Committee, Hon. Abubakar Babazango, in goodwill message described the anniversary as a moment of deep significance for Algeria and the entire African continent. He paid tribute to the courage and resilience of the Algerian people, whose struggle for liberation, launched 71 years ago, remains “an enduring symbol of hope” for oppressed peoples worldwide.

He said: “This day reminds us of the unity and sacrifice of the Algerian people who rose with determination to reclaim their freedom and dignity.”

He highlighted the strong diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Algeria, noting that both countries share a history of solidarity and a common vision for peace, development, and prosperity in Africa. He emphasized the role of the Nigeria–Algeria Parliamentary Friendship Group in fostering collaboration across key sectors, including trade, education, energy, and cultural exchange.

He said: “As we mark this historic occasion, may the friendship between Nigeria and Algeria continue to grow in unity and progress.”

The event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, legislators, and other distinguished guests.

Algeria Calls for Continued Development, Stronger Ties with Nigeria

International

An Open China for a Shared Future

Published

2 weeks ago

November 14, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

An Open China for a Shared Future

By: Yu Dunhai

Not long ago, the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China was convened in Beijing. During the session, the document Recommendations of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China for Formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development was deliberated and adopted, charting the course for China’s development over the next five years.

The plenum called for steadily expanding institutional opening-up, safeguarding the multilateral trading system, promoting broader international economic flows, and advancing reform and development through opening-up, thereby creating broader space for China and the world to share development opportunities.

In early November, the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) was successfully held in Shanghai. As the first major economic and diplomatic event following the Fourth Plenary Session, this year’s CIIE not only demonstrated the vast potential of the Chinese market but also served as a platform for global partners, including Nigeria, to connect and collaborate.

Nigeria participated in the Expo a Guest Countryof Honor. During the event, the Hon.Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, attended and addressed the opening ceremony.Chinese Premier Li Qiang held a productive meeting with the Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and his delegation. Building on these high-level engagements, Nigeria’s presence was further highlighted at its national pavilion.

Showcasing the country’s economic achievements, investment potential, and high-quality products, the Nigeria Pavilion attracted considerable attention from Chinese buyers and investment institutions. Nigerian businesses used this platform to gain direct access to China’s vast market and enhance their brand visibility through exchanges with international exhibitors.Key Nigerian exports—such as agricultural products, processed foods, and creative industry goods—continued to be well-received by Chinese consumers, injecting new vitality into bilateral economic and trade relations.

This year, the CIIE upgraded its special exhibition zone for products from the world’s least developed countries, many of which are from Africa. This upgrade enabled enterprises and products from all 53 African countries that have diplomatic ties with China to fully benefit from zero-tariff treatment. More than 80 business associations from over 50 countries and regions participated as groups, underscoring the CIIE’s unique role in supporting global small and medium-sized enterprises. The Hongqiao International Economic Forum, held in tandem with the CIIE, focused for the first time on the themes of“economic resilience” and “sustainable agricultural development” in the Global South, further demonstrating China’s commitment to advancing hand in hand with developing countries.

Over the past five years, China’s economy has maintained steady growth amid a complex international environment. By the end of 2025, China’s total economic output is expected to reach around 140 trillion yuan (approximately USD 19.4 trillion), contributing about 30% to global economic growth. China has continued to promote technological innovation and green transformation while further expanding opening up, creating new opportunities for global cooperation.

Nigeria, as a major African economy with a young population and vast market potential, has seen its relations with China enter a fast track of development under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state. Bilateral trade has grown steadily, surpassing USD 20 billion in the first three quarters of 2025, a year-on-year increase of 32.56%. China has remained one of Nigeria’s top trading partners for many years. The two countries have achieved fruitful cooperation in energy, agriculture, manufacturing, infrastructure, and the digital economy, while also exploring new opportunities in green transformation and emerging industries.

The year 2026 will mark the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria. China is ready to take this opportunity to deepen the alignment of development strategies with Nigeria, effectively connecting China’s 15th Five-Year Plan with Nigeria’s “Renewed Hope” Agenda, expand practical cooperation across multiple fields, and support Nigeria’s industrial and agricultural modernization.

Today, the world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century. China cannot be separated from the world in achieving development, and the world also needs China for prosperity. No matter how the international landscape evolves, China’s determination to expand high-level opening up will remain unchanged; its resolve to share development opportunities with the world will remain unchanged; and its commitment to promoting open, inclusive, balanced, and win-win economic globalization will remain unchanged.

China will continue to advance high-level opening up, work together with Nigeria and other African countries to build a closer China-Africa community with a shared future, and jointly create a better future defined by openness, cooperation, and mutual benefit.
Yu Dunhai is Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria