Raphael Oni
The Chinese Chargé d’Affaires Zhou Hongyou has hailed the relationship between China and Nigeria as a model of South-South cooperation, emphasizing the strong bonds of friendship and mutual respect between the two nations.
Speaking at the Chinese New Year Temple Fair in Abuja, Hongyou highlighted the significant progress made in China-Nigeria relations over the past 55 years, citing increased political mutual trust, economic cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges.
“China-Nigeria cooperation has gone beyond the scope of bilateral economic relations and has become a model of South-South cooperation,” Hongyou said. “Bilateral trade continues to expand, infrastructure cooperation is progressing steadily, and the two sides are actively consulting on the implementation of zero-tariff measures, which provide strong support for Nigeria’s modernization efforts.”
Hongyou also emphasized the importance of cultural exchanges between China and Nigeria, citing the successful launch of the Chinese-language radio program “Ni Hao! China” on the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria. “This program has opened a window for communication between our two peoples and will further strengthen our cultural ties,” he said.
The Chargé d’Affaires also highlighted China’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s development, citing initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). “China will continue to work with Nigeria to deepen our cooperation and explore new areas of mutual benefit,” Hongyou said.
As Nigeria and China look to the future, Hongyou expressed optimism about the prospects of their partnership. “The year 2026 marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria, and the ‘China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges’,” he said. “This provides an important opportunity for us to carry forward our traditional friendship, enhance personnel exchanges, deepen exchanges of experience in governance, and jointly advance modernization.”
Hongyou concluded by wishing Nigerians a happy and prosperous New Year, saying, “May the friendship between the Chinese and Nigerian peoples gallop forward like a fine horse, moving bravely ahead and shining even more brilliantly in 2026!”
The Chinese New Year Temple Fair was a celebration of the strong ties between China and Nigeria, featuring cultural performances, traditional Chinese music and dance, and a photo exhibition showcasing Chinese Spring Festival culture and tourism. The event was attended by dignitaries, including the Director General of Nigeria China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Joseph Tegbe, and other officials from the Nigerian government and the diplomatic community in Nigeria.
