From January 8th to 9th, 2025, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Nigeria, marking a significant step in boosting bilateral ties. This visit, following a four-year gap, coincided with the 25th Anniversary of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). It also followed earlier high-level exchanges between China and Nigeria in 2024, including visits by Nigeria’s President Tinubu and Foreign Minister Tuggar to China.
During the visit, Wang Yi emphasized the importance of deepening China-Nigeria cooperation. The discussions focused on aligning China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Both countries reaffirmed their dedication to mutual development, regional stability, and peace.
Notably, the visit led to significant agreements. These included the renewal of a 15 billion yuan currency swap agreement and a €245 million loan from the China Development Bank to support the Kano-Kaduna railway project. Additionally, both sides explored collaboration in trade, agriculture, new energy, and security.
Importantly, Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to the One-China principle. In return, China pledged to support Nigeria’s regional and global ambitions, especially in counterterrorism and peacekeeping efforts.
This visit is expected to further strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations. By enhancing cooperation across multiple sectors, both countries aim to contribute to the collective rise of the Global South and improve global governance. Wang Yi’s visit underscores the enduring commitment to a prosperous shared future for China and Nigeria.
