By our Correspondent
The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria on Wednesday held a reception in Abuja to commemorate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria.
Speaking at the occasion, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, said that over the past 55 years, China-Nigeria relations had entered the “fast lane”, with bilateral trade reaching 18 billion dollars as of the end of June 2026.
“China and Nigeria have grown closer through mutual respect and shared success,” Yu said.
According to him, the achievements reflected the deepening of bilateral relations under the leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu.
Yu highlighted some recent developments in bilateral relations, including China’s zero-tariff treatment for 53 African countries, the launch of Chinese-language broadcasts on two Nigerian national radio stations, and Nigeria’s invitation to join the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO), among other development frameworks.
China was founded on Oct. 1, 1949, while diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria were established in February 1971, with normal diplomatic ties commencing in 1972.
Also speaking, Nigeria’s Minister of Power and Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, Joseph Tegbe, conveyed President Tinubu’s congratulatory message to President Xi Jinping.
Tegbe commended China’s contributions to Nigeria’s infrastructure development, citing projects including the Lekki Deep Seaport, airport terminal construction, Zungeru Hydropower Station, AKK Gas Pipeline, railway projects and highways across the country.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Government’s commitment to the One-China Principle, adding that Nigeria continued to abide by United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758, which recognises the Government of the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal government representing China.
The reception was attended by over 600 guests including federal and state government officials, diplomats, representatives of the Chinese business community in Nigeria and members of the media.
Cultural Troupe from Hunan, China was also on hand to entertain guests with warmth, friendship and laughter. (GSF)