Nigeria, China Set for High-Level Political Consultations in July
Oru Leonard
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to make futher deepen relations with China as both countries prepare to hold a political consultation meeting in July 2026 aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and advancing shared development goals.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, made this known when he received the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, in Abuja to discuss arrangements for the upcoming consultations.
Ambassador Ahmed described Nigeria’s relationship with China as a strategic partnership of immense importance to the country’s foreign policy and economic development agenda. He stressed the need for sustained engagement and stronger coordination ahead of forthcoming bilateral meetings, particularly the Nigeria-China Sub-Committee Meeting.
According to him, the consultations will provide an opportunity for both nations to align priorities and deepen cooperation in key sectors of mutual interest.
In his remarks, Ambassador Yu reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening its comprehensive strategic partnership with Nigeria, noting that the July consultations would review progress made in implementing agreements reached during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to China in September 2024, as well as subsequent bilateral engagements.
The Chinese envoy highlighted achievements recorded in infrastructure development, trade, industrialisation, power generation and railway modernisation. He also commended the impact of China’s zero-tariff policy for eligible Nigerian exports, which took effect on May 1, 2026, saying the initiative has already boosted Nigerian exports to the Chinese market and is expected to stimulate investment, industrial growth and job creation.
Ambassador Yu further expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s support on issues of mutual concern and conveyed China’s readiness to expand cooperation in regional peace and security, counter-terrorism, multilateral affairs, artificial intelligence governance, education, cultural diplomacy and youth development.
He also acknowledged the efforts of the Nigerian government and security agencies in addressing security challenges affecting foreign nationals and investments, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining a conducive environment for business and investment.
Responding, Ambassador Ahmed reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to the One-China Policy and pledged continued collaboration with China in critical sectors, including industrialisation, agriculture, information and communication technology, transportation, education, healthcare and human capital development.
He noted that the Federal Government remains focused on promoting value addition, manufacturing and technology-driven growth as part of its broader economic transformation agenda.
Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to close consultations and stronger bilateral cooperation, expressing confidence in the continued growth of the Nigeria-China strategic partnership.
The meeting ended on a cordial note, with both sides pledging to work together to advance mutual interests and shared development objectives.
