China pledges support for Nigeria’s anti-terrorism efforts, trade expansion

Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, met with Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, on Wednesday to discuss bilateral relations and ongoing cooperation between the two countries.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Chinese Embassy in Abuja.

Dunhai said, “Through the joint efforts of both sides, the China-Nigeria comprehensive strategic partnership has entered the fast track.”

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He highlighted China’s commitment to international cooperation, referencing the country’s 15th Five-Year Plan, and noted that “China and Nigeria have always understood and supported each other on issues concerning each other’s core interests.”

According to the statement, the envoy added, “China also supports Nigeria’s efforts to combat terrorism.

“China is ready to work with Nigeria to implement zero-tariff treatment for Nigerian exports at an early date, and to make good preparations for the activities celebrating the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries and the 2026 China-Africa Year of Cultural Exchanges.”

These endeavours, the ambassador stated, “will consolidate strategic mutual trust between the two countries, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation.”

The statement further stated that Tuggar described China as “Nigeria’s comprehensive strategic partner” and said the country values the relationship.

He thanked China for its active support for Nigeria’s economic and social development.

Tuggar also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the one-China principle and expressed interest in expanding cooperation in “manufacturing, trade, and investment” to strengthen bilateral relations.

Nigeria and China established diplomatic relations in 1971, and over the decades, their cooperation has expanded steadily, covering trade, infrastructure, investment, cultural exchange, and development‑oriented projects.

In recent years, trade between the two countries has surged. In 2023, bilateral trade reportedly reached about $22.6bn, one of the highest in Africa.

Chinese firms have been active in major infrastructure projects in Nigeria, including ports, rail, and energy.