The Federal Government has renewed Nigeria’s commitment to expanding its bilateral relationship with China as the Asian country marks its 77th National Day.
TVC News reported that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday by its spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, in which Nigeria congratulated the Chinese government and people while acknowledging the country’s development achievements and resilience.
According to the ministry, Nigeria and China have maintained diplomatic relations since February 10, 1971, with 2026 marking 55 years of bilateral engagement. The partnership was upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in September 2024, providing a broader framework for cooperation between the two countries.
The ministry said areas of collaboration include trade and investment, infrastructure, energy, agriculture, defence, solid minerals, culture, renewable energy and the digital economy. Nigeria also highlighted the importance of taking advantage of China’s zero-tariff policy for African exports to expand market access and support economic development, while backing the implementation of outcomes from the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit.
Nigeria and China, the statement added, continue to cooperate through multilateral institutions and the framework of South-South Cooperation, particularly on international peace and security as well as sustainable development. The Federal Government extended its goodwill to President Xi Jinping and the Chinese people, wishing China continued peace, progress and prosperity.
