GlobalTimes Daily

By Sarafina Christopher

Abuja, December 18, 2025- The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai said that over 10,000 Nigerians have benefited from China-sponsored government training programmes and had contributed significantly to Nigeria’s national development by strengthening individual capacity and institutional effectiveness.

Yu made this known on Thursday at the first Annual China–Nigeria Government Exchange Programme Alumni Reunion Gala in Abuja, which brought together Nigerians who had studied or received training in China.

Welcoming participants, the ambassador said the event aimed to sustain engagement among alumni and provide a platform for collaboration, idea-sharing, and continued contribution to China–Nigeria relations.

“The purpose of tonight’s gathering is to allow our alumni to stay connected, exchange ideas, and contribute meaningfully to China–Nigeria relations,” he said.

According to Yu, China has over the years offered training in diverse areas, including governance, poverty reduction, manufacturing, agriculture, public health, trade, investment, science, technology, innovation, blue economy, and digital economy. 

He said these programmes have strengthened the capabilities of individuals while contributing to Nigeria’s economic and social development.

The ambassador noted that alumni were spread across major Nigerian cities, including Abuja, Lagos, Ibadan, and Maiduguri, reflecting the nationwide reach of the initiative.

He described Nigeria and China as “natural partners” with over half a century of evolving friendship, noting mutual support on core national interests. 

Yu cited China’s recent opposition to potential military threats against Nigeria as an example of this partnership.

Yu also highlighted China’s support for Nigeria’s international role, including backing its return to the International Maritime Organisation and aspiration to join the G20. 

On Nigeria’s stance regarding China’s territorial integrity, he affirmed that the Federal Government upholds the One-China principle.

On economic cooperation, the ambassador revealed that bilateral trade has surpassed $22 billion this year, while China’s direct investment in Nigeria increased by 130 per cent and Nigerian exports to China rose by over 200 per cent. 

He also announced China’s zero-tariff policy for 100 per cent of products from all 53 African countries, including Nigeria.

“China’s today is Nigeria’s tomorrow,” he said, describing China as Nigeria’s “most important, reliable and trustworthy partner,” and reiterated readiness to work closely with Nigeria to achieve social and economic development.

The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Social Development Secretariat, Mrs. Olubunmi Olowookere, praised the training for enhancing her mandate in social welfare, poverty alleviation, and community development.

“The training exposed us to practical, people-centred development models and innovative social protection strategies, contributing significantly to China’s development journey,” she said.

Also speaking, Mr. Muhammad Kalgo, Special Assistant to the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, described the programme as “eye-opening and humbling,” particularly in showing how poverty eradication is achievable with well-coordinated policies, persistent leadership, and people-focused development.

He concluded that the alumni reunion marks a new beginning for continued collaboration, saying, “Our return is not the end; it is a new beginning to engage and build bridges between our nations.”

At the event, Nigerian officials shared experiences from the exchange programmes.(NAN)