China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, on Wednesday held discussions with Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
A statement released by the Chinese Embassy in Abuja said the meeting focused on ongoing cooperation and new areas of partnership. Ambassador Dunhai noted that relations between both countries had “entered the fast track,” crediting what he described as sustained collaboration and mutual understanding.
He referenced China’s 15th Five-Year Plan as an indicator of Beijing’s long-term commitment to global cooperation and emphasised that China and Nigeria “have always understood and supported each other on issues concerning each other’s core interests.”
The envoy also reiterated China’s support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
According to the statement, Beijing is prepared to fast-track zero-tariff treatment for Nigerian exports and is already planning joint activities to mark the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties and the 2026 China-Africa Year of Cultural Exchanges. Dunhai said these efforts would “consolidate strategic mutual trust” and expand mutually beneficial cooperation.
Minister Tuggar, in his remarks, described China as “Nigeria’s comprehensive strategic partner” and expressed appreciation for China’s continued support for Nigeria’s economic and social development. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s adherence to the one-China policy and highlighted opportunities for expanded cooperation in manufacturing, trade and investment.
Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1971, cooperation between Nigeria and China has grown steadily, spanning infrastructure, trade, cultural exchange and development projects.
Trade volumes have risen significantly in recent years, with bilateral trade in 2023 reaching an estimated $22.6bn — one of the highest between China and any African nation. Chinese companies continue to play prominent roles in large-scale Nigerian infrastructure projects, including rail lines, port facilities and energy development.
