The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to implementing agreements reached with China during President Bola Tinubu’s state visit in September 2024.
During a meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, in Abuja, Tuggar described the visit as a turning point in bilateral relations. The visit included the signing of four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), now at various stages of execution.
“This visit was instrumental in formalizing the upgrade of our relationship from a strategic partnership to a comprehensive strategic partnership,” Tuggar stated. “Nigeria remains committed to these agreements, which are poised to enhance cooperation in critical sectors such as trade, investment, and infrastructure.”
Tinubu’s six-day trip to China, which also included his participation in the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit, marked his first state visit to the country since assuming office.
Accompanied by ministers, governors, and business leaders, Tinubu’s visit aimed to deepen bilateral ties and promote economic collaboration.
Highlighting the significance of the agreements, Tuggar expressed optimism about their potential to unlock new opportunities, particularly in trade facilitation, capacity building, and cultural exchanges. “These MoUs are a framework for fostering collaboration and delivering concrete benefits to both nations,” he added.
The Foreign Affairs Minister also reaffirmed Nigeria’s adherence to the “One China Principle” and underscored the importance of sustained dialogue to ensure the successful execution of the agreements. “Our cooperation has already yielded significant results across various sectors, and we look forward to exploring new avenues for collaboration,” he said.
In his remarks, the Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, lauded Nigeria’s leadership in Africa and its role in the global South. He noted the substantial progress achieved under the guidance of both nations’ presidents, emphasizing China’s commitment to strengthening ties.
“Nigeria is a key African nation with global influence,” Wang stated. “We view our relationship with Nigeria from a strategic and long-term perspective. Under the leadership of our two presidents, our partnership has delivered tangible benefits for both countries.”
Wang reiterated China’s focus on prioritizing Africa in its foreign policy, expressing hope for continued collaboration to promote peace, development, and mutual prosperity.
The upgraded partnership between Nigeria and China, he noted, underscores a shared vision for economic growth and global leadership. “Together, we will pursue cooperation for mutual benefit, supporting each other on issues of core interest and development,” Wang concluded.
