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Partners in Progress: Nigeria-China @54
Partners in Progress: Nigeria-China @54
By Raphael Oni
As Nigeria and China celebrate 54 years of diplomatic relations, established on February 10, 1971, it’s essential to reflect on the journey so far and the promising future that lies ahead. This milestone is particularly significant, given the recent visit of President Bola Tinubu to China in September 2024, where he met with President Xi Jinping, upgrading relations to comprehensive strategic cooperation.
The Nigeria-China relationship has been a beacon of cooperation and mutual growth, with both nations benefiting from each other’s strengths. Over the years, China has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most significant trading partners, with bilateral trade reaching $22.6 billion in 2023. This robust economic engagement has created over 100,000 jobs in Nigeria, courtesy of Chinese investments.
Key Pillars of Nigeria-China Relations
One of the key pillars of Nigeria-China relations is the “One-China” policy, which Nigeria has consistently adhered to. This policy recognizes the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate government representing the whole of China, including Taiwan. As a result, Nigeria does not recognize Taiwan as a sovereign state, and this stance has been reinforced through various diplomatic efforts.
In January 2017, Nigeria took a significant step in correcting a diplomatic blunder by ordering Taiwan to relocate her Trade Mission from Abuja to Lagos. This move was seen as a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s commitment to the “One-China” policy and its desire to strengthen ties with Beijing.
Chinese Investments in Nigeria
Nigeria’s adherence to the “One-China” policy has been reciprocated by China through various forms of economic and infrastructure support. China has become one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners, with bilateral trade reaching $19.27 billion in 2019. Chinese investments in Nigeria have focused on critical sectors such as:
- Infrastructure Development: China has invested in several infrastructure projects, including the Abuja-Kaduna Railway, Lekki Free Trade Zone, and Zungeru Hydro Power Dam.
- Energy: China has supported Nigeria’s energy sector through investments in renewable energy initiatives.
- Agriculture: China has provided training programs for Nigerian farmers, focusing on modern agricultural techniques and best practices.
- Manufacturing: China has invested in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, creating new opportunities for economic growth and job creation.
Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership
As a result of President Tinubu’s visit to China in September 2024, Nigeria established the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, with Joseph Tegbe as its Director-General. This partnership aims to deepen economic cooperation, promote cultural exchange, and enhance strategic collaboration between the two nations.
The partnership will focus on several key areas, including:
- Agriculture: Nigeria and China will collaborate on modernizing agricultural practices, increasing productivity, and enhancing food security.
- Alternative Energy: The partnership will focus on developing Nigeria’s renewable energy sector, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and promoting sustainable development.
- Solid Minerals Development: China will support Nigeria’s efforts to develop its solid minerals sector, creating new opportunities for economic growth and job creation.
- Healthcare: The partnership will strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system through knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and the deployment of Chinese medical experts.
- Education: Nigeria and China will collaborate on vocational training, STEM education, and academic exchanges, equipping Nigerian youth with modern workforce skills.
Capacity Building Initiatives
China has also been actively involved in various capacity-building projects in Nigeria, aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of Nigerian professionals in key sectors. Some examples of these projects include:
- Agricultural Training Programs: China has provided training programs for Nigerian farmers, focusing on modern agricultural techniques and best practices.
- Infrastructure Development Training: China has offered training programs for Nigerian engineers and technicians, focusing on infrastructure development and management.
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Training: China has provided training programs for Nigerian ICT professionals, focusing on the latest technologies and trends in the sector.
- Healthcare Training Programs: China has offered training programs for Nigerian healthcare professionals, focusing on modern medical techniques and best practices.
Conclusion
As Nigeria and China celebrate 54 years of diplomatic relations, it’s clear that their partnership has entered a new era of strategic cooperation. With a shared commitment to mutual growth, cooperation, and development, both nations are poised to achieve great things together.
The future looks bright for Nigeria-China relations, driven by mutual respect, trust, and cooperation. With Joseph Tegbe, who has a proven track record of successfully navigating complex international partnerships, at the helm of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, I am confident that the partnership will continue to yield significant benefits for both nations.
Partners in Progress: Nigeria-China @54
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Cuba Accuses U.S. of Military Aggression Against Venezuela, Pledges Unwavering Support
Cuba Accuses U.S. of Military Aggression Against Venezuela, Pledges Unwavering Support
By: Michael Mike
Cuba has issued a fierce condemnation of what it claims was a military attack by the United States on Venezuela, describing the alleged action as a serious breach of international law and a threat to regional peace.
In an official statement released in Havana on Saturday, the Cuban Revolutionary Government said it stood in full solidarity with Venezuela and its leadership, backing calls by Caracas for proof of life of President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. Cuba also demanded their immediate release, alleging they were being held by U.S. authorities.
Havana characterised the reported operation as a “cowardly and criminal act,” accusing Washington of escalating a long-running campaign of pressure and hostility against Venezuela.
According to the statement, U.S. actions in the Caribbean intensified from September 2025, including increased naval activity justified by what Cuba called unfounded allegations.
The Cuban government said the alleged aggression was driven by imperial ambitions, claiming it was aimed at asserting dominance over Latin America and gaining access to Venezuela’s vast natural resources. It warned that the move was intended not only to undermine Venezuela’s sovereignty but also to intimidate other governments in the region.
Cuba placed responsibility for any deaths or damage resulting from the situation on the U.S. administration, naming President Donald Trump and senior officials as accountable for the consequences of what it described as reckless actions.
Recalling the 2014 Proclamation of Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace, signed in Havana by regional governments, Cuba said the current developments represented a direct challenge to that collective commitment.
The statement urged the international community to reject what it called an unlawful act against a United Nations member state, warning that allowing such an action to go unanswered would set a dangerous precedent. Cuba stressed that Venezuela had not attacked the United States or posed a military threat.
Reaffirming its close alliance with Caracas, Cuba said it remained prepared to support Venezuela in defending its independence and sovereignty, calling on governments, parliaments and social movements worldwide to condemn the alleged aggression.
Cuba Accuses U.S. of Military Aggression Against Venezuela, Pledges Unwavering Support
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Ex-Lawmaker Says Tinubu Deserves For Erecting Solid Foundation for Sustainable Economic Recovery
Ex-Lawmaker Says Tinubu Deserves For Erecting Solid Foundation for Sustainable Economic Recovery
By: Michael Mike
President Bola Tinubu has been described as deserving of reelection for putting in place a solid foundation for sustainable economic recovery.
Speaking during a family thanksgiving service at St. Paul’s Methodist Church, Obuohia Obi-Ibere, in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State, a member of the Governing Board of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Rt. Hon. Sam Onuigbo stated that the present administration of President Bola Tinubu has laid a solid foundation for sustainable economic recovery and should be considered for reelection come 2027.
He however noted that the president’s policies, though challenging, are already producing positive outcomes.
According to the former federal lawmaker, key economic indicators show gradual improvement, citing official data which he said indicate a moderation in inflation, declining food prices and progress in stabilising the foreign exchange market through the unification of rates.
He also pointed to the removal of fuel subsidy as a major reform that has helped eliminate the persistent fuel queues that usually accompany festive periods, noting that motorists now access petrol more easily, with filling stations competing for customers.
Onuigbo expressed confidence that Nigerians would reward what he described as courageous leadership at the polls in 2027, insisting that continuity is necessary to fully realise the benefits of the ongoing reforms.
The former two-term member of the House of Representatives, who represented Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency, said the thanksgiving was organised to appreciate God for His guidance and protection over his family despite years of political and personal challenges.
He announced plans to rebuild the church in his community as a mark of gratitude, describing the gesture as part of his commitment to giving back.
In his sermon, the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Oliver Aba, urged Christians to live lives of gratitude and humility, encouraging them to acknowledge God’s role in their successes.
The thanksgiving service was attended by several political leaders, including Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, and Senator Austin Akobundu of Abia Central, among others.
Ex-Lawmaker Says Tinubu Deserves For Erecting Solid Foundation for Sustainable Economic Recovery
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Zulum Celebrates Christmas with Frontline Soldiers in Malam Fatori, Reaffirms Commitment to Troops Welfare
Zulum Celebrates Christmas with Frontline Soldiers in Malam Fatori, Reaffirms Commitment to Troops Welfare
By: Our Reporter
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum has marked Christmas on Thursday by visiting frontline troops of the Nigerian Army’s 68 Battalion in the strategic border town of Malam Fatori, Abadam Local Government Area.
The Governor has spent the preceding four days traversing northern Borno, coordinating security measures and strengthening the resilience of returning communities. As part of his administration’s commitment to restoring civil authority, he spent the night in the newly resettled town, engaging with community leaders and residents.

His visit to the battalion, coinciding with the festive season, served as a symbolic and reassuring gesture to soldiers stationed far from their families under challenging operational conditions.
Governor Zulum commended the officers and men for their gallantry, resilience, and professionalism, stating that their sacrifices had ensured the survival and stability of Malam Fatori. He described them as the true guardians of peace, whose courage had enabled displaced communities to return and rebuild.

“Celebrating Christmas with the troops protecting our territorial integrity is not merely ceremonial, but a deliberate effort to stand with you at the point of sacrifice,” Governor Zulum said.
He added: “The courage you display daily in securing Malam Fatori and other frontline locations continues to inspire the state’s commitment to supporting security agencies until lasting peace is achieved.”
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering support for the armed forces, assuring the battalion of continued logistical and welfare assistance to complement federal efforts.
“Let me reiterate that security remains the top priority of my administration,” he stated, stressing that without peace, development and recovery would be impossible.
In the spirit of the season, Governor Zulum donated five bulls to the battalion to enable the troops to celebrate with dignity. In a rare personal gesture, he joined the soldiers in line, sharing a meal with them within the base.

The visit elicited widespread jubilation from the troops, many of whom expressed renewed morale at the Governor’s presence and personal engagement. For soldiers long separated from their families, the occasion served as a powerful reminder that their sacrifices are seen, valued, and appreciated.
The Governor was accompanied by the member House of Assembly representing Abadam State Constituency, Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Professor Usman Tar, Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Honourable Sugun Mai Mele and the Director General Borno State Emergency Management Agency.
Zulum Celebrates Christmas with Frontline Soldiers in Malam Fatori, Reaffirms Commitment to Troops Welfare
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