…as both countries emphasise trade, training, strategic partnership as relations continue to expand
By Gloria Ikibah
The Federal Republic of Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation following a diplomatic meeting in Abuja between senior representatives of both countries. 
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the renewed commitment after a courtesy visit by the Chargé d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy, Zhou Hongyou, to the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, on Tuesday, in Abuja.
According to the Ministry, both sides used the engagement to reflect on the strength and evolution of relations between the two nations.
The statement noted that discussions “underscored the depth of Nigeria-China relations, noting the extensive cooperation between the two countries in trade, infrastructure development, and strategic partnership.”
China was also described as playing a major role in Nigeria’s economic development landscape.
The Ministry stated that “Nigeria was described as one of China’s most significant partners in Africa, with visible Chinese-supported projects across various sectors of the Nigerian economy.”
Beyond economic cooperation, the talks highlighted the importance of capacity building and diplomatic exchanges. The statement said discussions 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.”
It added that there was specific reference to academic collaborations, noting “training initiatives coordinated by Chinese academic institutions, particularly Peking University, aimed at promoting experience-sharing among developing countries.”
The Chinese delegation also outlined plans for upcoming joint commemorations. According to the statement, “the Chinese side further highlighted plans to commemorate the Chinese New Year and the anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.”
Both countries agreed on a unified communication approach ahead of the celebrations. The Ministry disclosed that “both parties agreed on the importance of coordinated messaging and media engagement on 10 February 2026 to mark the occasion and reinforce public understanding of Nigeria–China relations.”
They restated their long-term diplomatic goals. The statement said the engagement “reaffirmed the shared commitment of Nigeria and China to deepening diplomatic engagement, enhancing institutional cooperation, and expanding people-to-people exchanges for mutual benefit.”
