The Chinese Embassy in Abuja on Wednesday hosted a grand reception to mark the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), with both China and Nigeria reaffirming their longstanding friendship and strategic partnership.
The event, held at the Congress Hall of the Hilton Hotel, brought together diplomats, senior government officials, lawmakers, business leaders, cultural groups, and friends of China and Nigeria.
In his keynote address, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Yu Dunhai, highlighted the deep ties between the two nations, noting the symbolic bond of celebrating their national days on the same date—October 1. “It is a shared national memory that binds our people together,” he said.
Ambassador Yu recalled his first year in Nigeria and paid tribute to the “Super Falcons” who came from behind to win the Women’s Africa Cup, describing them as an embodiment of Nigeria’s “resilience, unity, and never giving up.”
Reflecting on China’s journey, Yu said that over the past 76 years, the Communist Party of China had led the country to achieve “two miracles: rapid economic growth and long-term social stability.” He stressed that more than 800 million people had been lifted out of poverty, calling it the “Chinese poverty alleviation miracle.”
“In 2024, China’s GDP exceeded $18 trillion, with a per capita GDP surpassing $13,000. For years, China has contributed over 30% to global economic growth, serving as the primary engine of the world economy,” he said.
The Ambassador noted that China is advancing its rejuvenation through modernization, “standing firmly on the right side of history” and promoting peace, development, cooperation, and mutual benefit.
Turning to global issues, he pointed out that 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations and described China’s Global Governance Initiative (GGI) as part of the country’s effort to improve the global order. “The Global Governance Initiative embodies five core principles: adhering to sovereign equality, abiding by international rule of law, practicing multilateralism, advocating the people-centered approach and focusing on taking real actions,” Yu explained.
He added that Nigeria had endorsed the GGI, which China “deeply appreciates,” pledging Beijing’s readiness to work with Nigeria and other African countries in advancing cooperation.
Yu also highlighted the 25th anniversary of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), recalling that President Xi Jinping had announced a zero-tariff policy for all African countries with diplomatic ties to China. “These new measures will boost Africa’s strategic autonomy and development, opening a new chapter in high-quality China-Africa cooperation,” he said.
Speaking on bilateral relations, the Ambassador recalled President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to China last year, which elevated ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership. He cited projects such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port, expected to generate $360 billion in economic benefits and 170,000 jobs over 45 years; the Abuja Water Supply Project, which will serve 3 million people; and discussions on building Africa’s first local insulin production facility in Nigeria.
He also praised Nigerians who have distinguished themselves through China–Nigeria exchanges, including Ms. Issah Fatimah Abiola, the first Nigerian female train driver trained by CCECC, who recently received China’s “Friendship Envoy Award.” Yu also applauded young Ibrahim Ismail from Kano for his fluency in Mandarin.
“I learnt from reports that Nigeria’s Federal Government has decided to add Chinese language to the new curriculum of senior secondary schools. This is wonderful news. It will serve as an important bridge for deepening China-Nigeria friendship,” Yu noted.
Quoting a Hausa proverb, “Hannu da yawa ba ya karyewa” (A hand with many fingers does not break), the Ambassador concluded with a call for unity: “Let us stand united for a brighter and more splendid future. May China and Nigeria friendship last forever.”
Representing the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, the Senate representative for Jigawa North-West, Senator Babangida Hussaini, conveyed Nigeria’s congratulations to China.
“On behalf of the government and people of the Republic of Nigeria, and in particular, on behalf of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I extend to the government and people of China our heartfelt congratulations and warmest congratulations on this milestone celebration,” Hussaini said.
He described China’s transformation as “a story of hope and a testament to what is possible when the people are united behind a clear vision of progress and prosperity.”
The lawmaker underscored the special bond between Nigeria and China, noting that both nations celebrate their national days on October 1. “This remarkable coincidence provides us a special reminder that the destinies of our people are deeply intertwined,” he said.
Hussaini noted the growth of the comprehensive strategic partnership, pointing to Chinese investments across Nigeria in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, education, defense, trade, and industry. He emphasized that Nigeria remains a reliable partner to China, committed to modernization, industrialization, and renewable energy.
“As legislatures in Nigeria, we are committed to providing the enabling environment, legal funds, and oversight mechanisms to ensure that these partnerships remain transparent, sustainable, and impactful for the benefit of future generations,” he assured.
He further pledged that the National Assembly will continue strengthening parliamentary diplomacy with the National People’s Congress of China, advancing good governance and the welfare of citizens.
“May this anniversary inspire us all, Nigerians and Chinese alike, to build together a partnership that is not only strategic in words but transformative in deeds. Long live the People’s Republic of China,” he concluded.
