Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to the One-China principle while pursuing enhanced economic collaboration with China across trade, investment, infrastructure, and technology sectors.
The Chinese Communist Party views Taiwan as a breakaway province and Beijing has warned that any formal declaration of independence is a “red line” that would be met with military force, hence the One-China principle.
China has consistently defended its long-standing position on Taiwan, insisting that Taiwan remains “an inalienable part of Chinese territory, warning against what it described as attempts to promote “Taiwan independence,” by some countries.
President Bola Tinubu conveyed Nigeria’s commitment to the principle on Wednesday in Abuja during a reception commemorating the 77th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China’s establishment.
Tinubu, represented at the occasion by the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, extended congratulations to President Xi Jinping and the Chinese populace on this significant milestone.
He emphasized that Nigeria and China have cultivated a robust partnership since formalizing diplomatic relations in 1971, with collaborative efforts now encompassing infrastructure, energy, healthcare, technical training, and trade.
Tinubu acknowledged China’s remarkable accomplishments in manufacturing, scientific advancement, high-speed rail systems, and renewable energy. He further recognized its substantial progress in alleviating extreme poverty following the economic reforms initiated in 1978.
The President expressed Nigeria’s gratitude for China’s instrumental role in major undertakings, including deep-sea port development, railway modernization, and power infrastructure expansion.
He nevertheless emphasized that forthcoming cooperation should prioritize the reinforcement of Nigerian production capabilities and technical expertise.
The President further stated that Chinese investment should additionally provide Nigerian engineers and technicians with the competencies necessary to operate and sustain infrastructure established through bilateral partnership.
Tinubu welcomed China’s decision to extend zero-tariff treatment to African countries with diplomatic relations with Beijing.
He said Nigeria should use the policy to increase domestic production and expand exports to the Chinese market.
“Our shared task is to translate that asset into stronger Nigerian production and Nigerian exports to China,” he said.
The President also highlighted recent agreements on exports between both countries, saying they could help broaden Nigeria’s economic gains from the relationship.
He then reaffirmed Nigeria’s position on the One-China principle, which recognises the government of the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal government representing China.
“Let me reaffirm, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to the One-China principle,” he said.
In his remarks, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, said the bilateral relationship had entered a new phase of practical cooperation.
Yu noted that 2026 marks 55 years of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China. He said the relationship had grown into a comprehensive strategic partnership following the elevation of ties in 2024.
The ambassador said cooperation now spans trade, investment, infrastructure, energy, technology and cultural exchanges.
He disclosed that bilateral trade reached $18 billion in the first half of 2026, representing a 35 per cent increase. He also reported a significant rise in Chinese imports from Nigeria.
Yu said China’s zero-tariff initiative would give African countries greater access to the Chinese market and create opportunities to expand exports.
He said China was ready to align its development plans with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in industrialisation, digital development and the green and blue economies.
The ambassador also highlighted opportunities for cooperation in artificial intelligence, renewable energy and other emerging technologies.
He commended the Nigerian government’s economic reforms and efforts to improve the business environment, saying these could create more opportunities for Chinese investment.
Yu said continued mutual respect and practical cooperation would strengthen relations between the two countries.
“Those who walk the same path go far,” he said.
The event brought together government officials, diplomats, business leaders and other stakeholders to celebrate China’s national anniversary and the longstanding Nigeria-China partnership.