President Bola Tinubu warmly welcomed Mr. Chen Xiaodong, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, at the State House in Abuja. During the meeting, President Tinubu praised the enduring partnership between Nigeria and China, highlighting the need to continue nurturing and promoting this important bilateral relationship.
“Today marks a new chapter in our enduring partnership,” President Tinubu said. “A relationship that has lasted over 50 years must be continuously nurtured and promoted. Our shared commitment to values such as hard work, mutual understanding, and development is crucial. I am pleased that President Xi Jinping is giving significant attention to Africa and its developmental needs.”
President Tinubu expressed gratitude for China’s support in advancing Nigeria’s position on the global stage, particularly regarding its role in the G20, the UN Security Council, and the BRICS group of emerging economies, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
“Our confidence in our own capabilities is strong,” the President affirmed. “We are determined to uplift our people and enhance our nation’s values. Witnessing China’s transformation from a village in Shanghai to a technological powerhouse is a testament to the potential that collaborative efforts hold.”
The President commended President Xi Jinping for his ongoing efforts to strengthen relations with Nigeria and the broader African continent. “We value our bilateral relations deeply and are eager to further strengthen them. Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy, is committed to maintaining partnerships with those who respect our values, and China is a key ally in this regard.”
President Tinubu also expressed appreciation for President Xi Jinping’s role in mobilizing capital for impactful projects across Africa. “China’s involvement in Africa, particularly in capital mobilization and infrastructure development, is commendable. Nigeria’s infrastructure needs are substantial, and the transfer of technology and skills from China presents a significant opportunity to make a lasting impact,” he said.
The President further elaborated on Nigeria’s development goals, noting the importance of establishing more industrial parks and leveraging the country’s rich mineral resources. “The Lekki Free Trade Zone is progressing well, and we aim to develop more industrial hubs across Nigeria. With a vibrant, well-educated youth population eager to learn, we look forward to further discussions and collaborative efforts that will benefit both nations,” President Tinubu added.
In response, Vice Minister Chen Xiaodong outlined the purpose of his visit, which included briefing President Tinubu on an invitation from President Xi Jinping for a state visit to China. Mr. Xiaodong praised President Tinubu’s strategic leadership in both ECOWAS and the African continent.
“You are a distinguished leader and strategist in Africa,” Mr. Xiaodong remarked. “We believe that your forthcoming meeting with President Xi Jinping will open up new discussions and opportunities for Nigeria and Africa.”
The Chinese Vice Minister also extended his congratulations to President Tinubu on his re-election as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, acknowledging his significant role in regional leadership.
