Nigeria–China Relations Hit 55-Year Milestone
The Federal Government of Nigeria has commemorated the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China, reaffirming its commitment to deepening the longstanding partnership between both countries.
Since the formal establishment of diplomatic ties in 1971, relations between Nigeria and China have been anchored on mutual respect, solidarity, and a shared commitment to development. Over the past five decades, the relationship has evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership marked by strong political engagement, expanding economic cooperation, and growing cultural exchanges.
Nigeria continues to value China’s cooperation across critical sectors, including infrastructure development, energy, telecommunications, agriculture, and human capacity building. Landmark projects such as the Lagos–Ibadan Railway, the Abuja–Kaduna Railway, and several road infrastructure developments across the country stand as visible outcomes of the partnership and have contributed significantly to Nigeria’s socio-economic growth and improved livelihoods.
Beyond infrastructure, bilateral relations have been strengthened through increasing trade volumes, strong people-to-people ties, and close collaboration on regional and global issues of mutual interest. Both countries also maintain active cooperation within multilateral frameworks such as the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the United Nations.
To mark the anniversary, the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, exchanged congratulatory messages with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi.
In his message, Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, noted that over the past 55 years, China and Nigeria have consistently supported one another despite changes in the international environment. He described the friendship between both countries as one that transcends geographical distance and is deeply rooted in the hearts of their peoples. He further highlighted that since the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2024, bilateral cooperation has yielded tangible results, with enhanced political trust and closer coordination on regional and international affairs.
Ambassador Tuggar, in his response, reaffirmed Nigeria’s appreciation of its cordial and mutually beneficial relationship with China. He described China as an important strategic partner and emphasized Nigeria’s resolve to deepen bilateral exchanges while exploring new areas of cooperation aligned with the foreign policy priorities of both countries.
The Federal Government expressed confidence that the years ahead will witness an even stronger Nigeria–China partnership, delivering greater mutual benefits and contributing to peace, stability, and shared prosperity in Africa and globally.
Signed:
Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, ANIPR
Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja
Tuesday, 10 February 2026
