National News

Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger: ECOWAS Parliament proposes mediation committee

Published

2 years ago

May 21, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger: ECOWAS Parliament proposes mediation committee

By: Michael Mike

Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament has proposed the appointment of an Adhoc Mediation Committee to prevail on Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, the three member states of the regional bloc, to retrace their steps and reunite with other member nations.

The Acting Speaker of the Parliament, Barau Jibrin, who is also the Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate, said the machinery has been set in motion to do this.

Jibrin, speaking at the opening of 2024 Second Extraordinary Session of the Sixth Legislature of the ECOWAS Parliament in Kano State on Tuesday, noted that there is no alternative to a strong united regional bloc.

He said: ”I will, in consultation with my colleagues on the Bureau, be proposing the appointment of an Ad hoc Mediation Committee whose mandate will be to work with all stakeholders in getting our brothers to rescind their decision and come home and work towards promoting dialogue with a view to resolving conflicts in the region. It’s no doubt that we are stronger and there is absolutely no alternative to our collective aspirations of a united, peaceful and secure ECOWAS.

Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso had in January this year announced their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS.

The junta-led countries had been suspended from the regional bloc for coup d’état and were urged to return to democratic rule.

But in a shock reaction to the suspension, the three governments took the decision to withdraw from ECOWAS as according to them it was a “sovereign decision” to withdraw from the regional bloc.

Jubrin disclosed the session will also provide an opportunity for the Community Parliament to deliberate and provide fresh perspectives on pressing issues in the ECOWAS Region and proffer recommendations on how peace, security and stability can be attained.

”As the Parliament looks towards facilitating the promotion of democracy, checks and balances, as well as accountability in the ECOWAS Community, having a strong ECOWAS Parliament is indispensable. I have had the esteemed honour of leading this Parliament for barely two months and I have concluded that much needs to be done in terms of asserting the independence of the Parliament in the exercise of its important roles of parliamentary oversight and representation.

“There is, also, a compelling need to build strong collaboration with the ECOWAS Commission and undertake joint initiatives aimed at strengthening regional security and advancing development. While it is true that each institution has its unique prerogatives, the fact remains that there exist cross-cutting issues that are best addressed with enhanced collaboration among the community institutions.”

On the delegation of Togo to the parliament, Jibrin disclosed that the delegation from that country that the speakership of the sixth legislature has be zoned to, is expected to be sworn in as members of the parliament before the end of the session.

“I wish to also inform this house that a Parliamentary Fact-finding mission was dispatched to the Republic of Togo. The delegation ascertained circumstances surrounding the notable absence of the Togolese delegation, which, by virtue of the Supplementary Act on the Enhancement of the Powers of the Parliament, deserves the Speakership, and held discussions with national stakeholders on other political issues. I am pleased to report that we received very favorable response from the Togolese authorities that our brothers from Togo will be inaugurated as soon as possible.

He noted that since the inauguration of the sixth legislature of the ECOWAS Parliament on Thursday, April, 2024, it has been able make some notable achievements and participated in various regional, continental and international programmes.

“Within this short period, the ECOWAS Parliament participated in the Third Parliamentary Policy Dialogue on the Protection of Vulnerable Targets against terrorism, which was hosted by the United Nations Office on Counter Terrorism, a Capacity Building Training on Labor Migration Governance under the auspices of the African Union Commission and the International Conference on enhancing the role, relevance, and effectiveness of the ECOWAS Court of Justice through the strengthening of synergies between the Court and national stakeholders, which was hosted by our sister Institution the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice.

“Additionally, members of the ECOWAS Female Parliamentarian Association were invited by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies to share experience with the National Assembly of Nigeria on the modalities in establishing a multi-party women’s caucus in the Nigerian National Assembly. We look forward to more of such engagements, especially with our counterparts at the National Level, with the view to promoting regional integration.”

In an interview with journalists, Sen. Ali Ndume who is perhaps the longest serving member of the regional parliament, said the departing members time out is surely over now, as all that was needed to big them back into the fold is now in place.

He noted that the decision to leave the bloc if it could be recalled was made after the coup in Niger was condemned by all members especially Nigeria.

He insisted that the bad blood which led to the decision to leave has since been drained and Niger is no longer annoyed with sister West African countries especially Nigeria and as such the country from all indications is ready to come back.

In his address the Kano state Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, emphasized the need to tackle the citizenship issues among ECOWAS member countries, regional security, integration, environmental and natural resources challenges, and higher education, employment, poverty, and democratic volatility.

He cautioned against allowing global powers to turn the region into a dumping ground for finished goods, stressing that Africa is not a dumping ground for global markets.

The Kano Governor urged the Regional Parliament to revisit the issue of a common currency and passports, which would enhance the region’s economic viability and global competitiveness.

Yusuf expressed concern about the proliferation of illicit drugs and arms and light weapons, calling for concerted efforts to combat these menaces.

He said that, despite challenges, the West African regional Gross Domestic Product (GDP) stood at $633 billion as of 2023, highlighting the region’s potential to become a significant global economic key player.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs in Nigeria, Yusuf Tuggar, in a message, assured the community of Nigeria’s Government continued support while identifying ECOWAS Parliament as vital institution in fostering regional integration.

Tuggar, represented by Ambassador Musa Nuhu, the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to ECOWAS, stressed the need for ECOWAS Community to strengthen its democratic institutions for the benefits of the region.

He said, “we need to collaborate with all organs and institutions within the ECOWAS. You have at your disposal so many instruments to use for you to achieve that.”

The Minister urged the ECOWAS Parliament to use its various mechanisms to engage member countries that currently under unconstitutional changes of government.

Tuggar said, “as regional Parliamentarians, you have a role to play in harnessing the cooperation of our people. The Parliamentarians are closer to our populace and that is why you have to underscore the importance of the role you have are occupying today especially in this period where our sub-regional organization is so much challenged with numerous issues.”

He described the hosting of the regional meeting in the commercial city of Kano as important as it will greatly bridge the gap between the citizens and the regional community.

During this session, the regional parliament is expected to hold deliberations and adopt three very important instruments which bear heavily on the progress and effective implementation of our mandate.

They are, the Rules of Procedure of the Sixth Legislature, which was deferred from our Inaugural session. The Strategic Plan of the Sixth Legislature, and The Work Plan of the year 2024.

The Rules of Procedure serves as a guide and direction for the parliament in checking procedural deficiencies.

The Strategic Plan, on the other hand, serves as a crucial and indispensable tool in ensuring that the programs and activities of the parliament are directly linked with the overall strategic institutional objectives of ECOWAS, while the Work Plan sets the agenda for the engagements the year.

Five parliamentarians were sworn as members of the regional parliament at the opening of the session by the acting speaker of the parliament, Senator Jibrin.

The ceremony was attended by the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, the Emir of Bichi, Alhaji Nasiru Ado Bayero, the Emir Karaye, Alhaji Ibrahim Abubakar II and Emir of Gaya, Alhaji Aliyu Ibrahim.

Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger: ECOWAS Parliament proposes mediation committee

National News

Commonwealth Urge Action to Make Rule of Law Deliver for Citizens

Published

22 hours ago

February 10, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Commonwealth Urge Action to Make Rule of Law Deliver for Citizens

By: Michael Mike

Justice ministers and attorneys general from across the Commonwealth have gathered in Fiji for a high-level meeting aimed at strengthening the rule of law and ensuring it delivers tangible benefits for citizens amid growing global uncertainty.

The Commonwealth Law Ministers Meeting opened on Monday, February 9, 2026, in Nadi, bringing together more than 250 delegates from the organisation’s 56 member states. The event was formally inaugurated with a traditional Fijian welcome ceremony attended by Fiji’s Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, alongside the Prime Ministers of Tuvalu, Feleti Penitala Teo, and senior government officials from Tonga and other member countries.

Addressing the opening session, Prime Minister Rabuka warned that the rule of law is under increasing strain worldwide, cautioning that its erosion has direct and damaging consequences for ordinary people.

“When the law is weakened or unevenly applied, it is not institutions alone that suffer,” he said. “It is real people and real lives. This meeting must therefore go beyond discussion to produce practical outcomes that strengthen justice systems and public trust.”

He challenged ministers to ensure that legal frameworks remain responsive to contemporary threats, particularly the accelerating impact of climate change, urging justice systems to serve as a protective shield for both people and the environment.

Echoing these concerns, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey said the meeting was taking place at a moment marked by political instability, economic pressures and environmental risks that have left many citizens feeling insecure.

She warned that the gradual replacement of the rule of law with the “rule of force” threatens democratic governance and social cohesion, underscoring the critical role of law ministers in reversing that trend.

“The work you do here matters profoundly,” Botchwey said. “Strengthening democratic resilience and restoring trust between institutions and the people they serve is not an easy task, but it is essential.”

She added that the Commonwealth’s new strategic plan reflects this urgency by prioritising targeted action to ensure that the rule of law is experienced not only in courtrooms, but in everyday life.

Over the three-day meeting, delegates will deliberate on a wide range of issues affecting justice delivery across the Commonwealth, including how legal systems shape democratic participation, economic opportunity and environmental protection.

Key discussions will address emerging challenges such as safeguarding maritime rights in the face of rising sea levels, improving access to justice through responsible use of technology, and adapting legal frameworks to respond to climate-related displacement and resource pressures.

The meeting is being chaired by Fiji’s Minister for Justice and Acting Attorney-General, Siromi Turaga, under the theme “Anchoring Justice in a Changing Tide: Strengthening the Rule of Law for a Resilient Future.”

The gathering is expected to conclude on February 11 with the adoption of an outcome statement outlining concrete actions that Commonwealth countries will take to reinforce the rule of law and promote inclusive justice for their citizens.

Commonwealth Urge Action to Make Rule of Law Deliver for Citizens

National News

VP SHETTIMA AT NEC CONFERENCE: Inclusive Growth, Economic Progress Must Filter Down To Everyday Lives Of Nigerians

Published

1 day ago

February 10, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

VP SHETTIMA AT NEC CONFERENCE: Inclusive Growth, Economic Progress Must Filter Down To Everyday Lives Of Nigerians

Urges Council members to remain engine room for consensus-building, coordinated action between FG, states

Says confab demonstrates harmonious relationship President Tinubu has shared with NEC

By: Our Reporter

Following the address of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, at the second edition of the National Economic Council (NEC) conference, Vice President Kashim Shettima has implored governors of the 36 states of the federation, ministers and other public officials to work towards achieving the kind of inclusive growth and economic progress that trickle down to the everyday lives of Nigerians.

According to him, the prevailing wisdom among developed economies has moved beyond growth for its own sake to sustainable growth that accommodates all citizens.

The Vice President, who stated this on Monday in Abuja while delivering his keynote address during the National Economic Council (NEC) Conference, described the two-day confab as a continuation of government’s covenant with the Nigerian people.

“The inclusive growth on our radar is not an exercise in sloganeering. We have confronted the macroeconomic obstacles before us. What remains is to ensure that progress filters down to the everyday lives of our people. This is precisely why the National Economic Council remains the most suitable vehicle for delivering the promise of inclusive growth.

“Our mission is incomplete if a child born in Lafia does not have the same chance to thrive as one born in Lagos; if the farmer in Makurdi, the entrepreneur in Aba, and the student in Sokoto cannot all find dignity, opportunity, and hope within the Nigerian dream,” he declared.

Senator Shettima pointed out that while the NEC conference is a moment to take stock of the tasks ahead, the event also demonstrates the harmonious relationship President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shared with NEC through the “memorable years of inevitable and transformative reforms aimed at resetting the foundations” of the nation’s economy.

He applauded President Tinubu for improving Nigeria’s economic fortunes, noting that it would be difficult for anyone to deny the sincerity with which the President “has honoured his promise to insulate the Nigerian economy in a world increasingly shaped by geopolitical tensions and rising economic protectionism.”

On what the conference intends to achieve, VP Shettima explained that it “presents a unique opportunity to onboard new Governors” and deepen the shared understanding of NEC’s role in shaping Nigeria’s economic destiny.

Among others, he said the two-day retreat seeks to “align federal and state strategies with the National Development Plan (2021–2025) and the Nigeria Agenda 2050, especially in poverty reduction, job creation, and social protection.”

Senator Shettima outlined the objectives of the confab to include strengthening collaboration across regions through practical frameworks for inter-regional trade, investment, and infrastructure, harnessing the comparative advantages of each geopolitical zone.

He said the conference will also explore “pathways for fiscal sustainability at both federal and subnational levels, reforming tax systems and enhancing internally generated revenue without overburdening our people; and to ensure that NEC’s resolutions translate into legislative and executive action that delivers tangible outcomes at federal, state, and community levels.”

The Vice President urged participants at the conference “to be bold in thought, courageous in questioning the status quo, and resolute in crafting an implementable roadmap that speaks not just to growth, but to growth that is inclusive, sustainable, and transformative.

“History will not judge us by what we discuss, but by the clarity of the actions and the impact inspired by such decisions. May this conference mark another step towards a nation that works for all its people,” he added.

In his welcome remarks, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, lauded the efforts and contributions of NEC to gains recorded in the economy, just as he commended the Vice President for his leadership and state Governors for their commitment to the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Senator Bagudu expressed hope that the NEC conference will provide the forum with an opportunity to generate the consensus needed to support the creation of the trillion dollar economy.

For his part, Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, represented by Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, said the conference was holding at a time where the country is undertaking a deliberate reset targeted at repositioning the economy for sustainable development.

He pledged the support of the states in delivering inclusive growth and sustainable national development as enshrined in the Renewed Hope National Development Plan.

VP SHETTIMA AT NEC CONFERENCE: Inclusive Growth, Economic Progress Must Filter Down To Everyday Lives Of Nigerians

National News

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

Published

5 days 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.