Nigeria, China Reaffirm Commitment to Deepening Bilateral Cooperation

By Iyojo Ameh

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with the People’s Republic of China, following a courtesy visit by the Chargé d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. Zhou Hongyou.

The visit, which took place on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja, was hosted by the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Mr.

Both sides underscored the extensive cooperation between Nigeria and China, particularly in the areas of trade, infrastructure development and broader strategic partnership.

Nigeria was described as one of China’s most important partners in Africa, with Chinese-backed projects visibly contributing to key sectors of the Nigerian economy.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of reciprocal official visits, study tours and exposure programmes for diplomats, aimed at deepening mutual understanding and strengthening institutional ties.

Participants identified short-term and specialised training opportunities in governance, public administration, strategic communication and public diplomacy as critical to building capacity within public institutions.

Reference was made to capacity-building initiatives coordinated by Chinese academic institutions, including Peking University, which are designed to promote experience-sharing and skills development among developing countries.

On the diplomatic front, the Chinese delegation 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 need for coordinated messaging and media engagement on February 10, 2026, to mark the occasion and enhance public awareness of the longstanding partnership.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by both Nigeria and China to expand diplomatic engagement, strengthen institutional cooperation and deepen people-to-people exchanges for mutual benefit.