Nigeria–China Relations Get Fresh Boost at Abuja Diplomatic Talks

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its bilateral relationship with the People’s Republic of China following a courtesy visit by the Chargé d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy, Mr. Zhou Hongyou, to the Spokesperson of the Ministry, Mr. Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
The visit took place on Tuesday, 3 February 2026, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, where both sides highlighted the depth and strategic importance of Nigeria–China relations.
During the engagement, the two parties noted the extensive cooperation between Nigeria and China, particularly in trade, infrastructure development and strategic partnership. Nigeria was described as one of China’s most important partners in Africa, with Chinese-supported projects visible across several sectors of the Nigerian economy.
Discussions also emphasized the value of reciprocal official visits, study tours and exposure programmes for diplomats as a means of enhancing mutual understanding. Both sides identified short-term and specialized training opportunities in areas such as governance, public administration, strategic communication and public diplomacy as key to strengthening institutional capacity.
Reference was made to training initiatives coordinated by Chinese academic institutions, including Peking University, which are designed to promote experience-sharing and capacity building among developing countries.
The Chinese side further outlined plans to commemorate the Chinese New Year and the anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China. Both parties agreed on the importance of coordinated messaging and media engagement on 10 February 2026 to mark the occasion and deepen public awareness of the longstanding partnership.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the shared commitment of Nigeria and China to expanding diplomatic engagement, strengthening institutional cooperation and enhancing people-to-people exchanges for mutual benefit.