Abuja — Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China are set to deepen bilateral ties as both countries prepare to convene a high-level political consultation meeting in July 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with China during a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, in Abuja on June 19.
Ahmed described Nigeria-China relations as pivotal to the country’s foreign policy and economic development agenda, emphasizing the need for sustained engagement and stronger collaboration ahead of the forthcoming consultations. He noted that the meeting, alongside the Nigeria-China Sub-Committee session, would provide a platform for both nations to align priorities and expand cooperation in key sectors.
In his remarks, Ambassador Yu reiterated China’s commitment to advancing its comprehensive strategic partnership with Nigeria. He said the July consultations would review progress made on agreements reached during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to China in September 2024, as well as other bilateral engagements.
Yu highlighted notable gains in infrastructure development, trade, industrialisation, power generation, and railway modernisation. He also commended the impact of China’s zero-tariff policy for eligible Nigerian exports, which took effect on May 1, 2026, noting that it has already boosted Nigerian exports and is expected to drive further investment, industrial growth, and job creation.
The Chinese envoy further expressed readiness to expand cooperation in regional peace and security, counter-terrorism, artificial intelligence governance, education, cultural exchanges, and youth development. He acknowledged Nigeria’s efforts in addressing security challenges and ensuring a conducive environment for foreign investments.
Responding, Ahmed reaffirmed Nigeria’s adherence to the One-China Policy and stressed the government’s commitment to deepening collaboration in critical sectors such as agriculture, ICT, transportation, healthcare, education, and human capital development. He added that Nigeria remains focused on promoting value addition, manufacturing, and technology-driven growth as part of its economic transformation strategy.
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Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to sustained dialogue and stronger bilateral cooperation in pursuit of shared development goals.
The meeting ended on a cordial note, with both countries expressing confidence in the continued growth of Nigeria-China relations.
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