By Sarafina Christopher
Lagos, Nov. 5, 2025 – Ms Yan Yuqing, the Consul-General in Lagos says 800 Nigerians have benefitted from a China-backed cataract intervention project aimed at restoring the sight of persons from low-income backgrounds.
The envoy revealed this during a media delegation dialogue at the consulate in Lagos.
According to Yan, the cataract initiative, launched in 2013, has supported beneficiaries across several southern states, noting that patients ranged from a nine month old infant to a 95-year-old adult.
While highlighting China’s growing humanitarian, cultural and economic engagement in Nigeria, she added that the project has continued to expand beyond Lagos into states such as Ogun, Delta, and Abia.
She recalled the case of an eight- year old boy who regained his sight through the surgery and expressed joy in finally being able to differentiate the colours of the Nigerian and Chinese flags.
Yan said China remained committed to strengthening its ties with Nigeria through programmes that promote development and improve quality of life, adding that Chinese companies and communities operating in Nigeria were contributing meaningfully to local social welfare.
She also highlighted ongoing food assistance programmes targeting vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, through the provision of rice, noodles, cooking oil, Kitchen utensils, fishing nets and school bags.
While reaffirming China’s commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation, the envoy said cultural exchanges, education, trade and talent development remained priority areas.
She lauded Nigerian youths for their exceptional performance in Chinese language competitions, with some winning global awards after just one year of study.
Yan encouraged continued collaboration between both countries’ educational institutions, citing successful partnerships including vocational training programmes between Ajaokuta Polytechnic, Fuzhou Polytechnic and Yongxing Steel.
She further invited Nigerians to join the Chinese community in celebrating the Spring Festival on Feb. 8, which will feature cultural performances, cuisine exhibitions and product showcases.
Yan thanked journalists for promoting accurate reporting on China and pledged ongoing support for partnerships that promote mutual understanding and development.
NAN also reports that the delegation of journalists from Abuja were led by the Chinese Embassy team to visit Lekki Port, Lekki Free Zone, enterprises and the Consulate in Lagos from Nov. 3 to Nov. 5.(NAN)
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