By Chioma Gabriel

China and Africa remain steadfast partners and brothers with a shared future, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at a press conference during the 3rd Session of the 14th National People’s Congress on March 7, 2025. He highlighted that under the leadership of President Xi Jinping and African leaders, China-Africa relations are stronger than ever, with strategic partnerships established with all African nations maintaining diplomatic ties with China.

As China and Nigeria mark the 25th anniversary of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), Wang emphasized that both nations are fostering deeper collaboration to drive Africa’s development, reinforcing their long-standing mutual trust and solidarity.

Over the past 25 years, China-Africa cooperation has yielded significant results. China has built or upgraded nearly 100,000 kilometers of roads and over 10,000 kilometers of railways across Africa. In the past three years, Chinese enterprises have created over 1.1 million jobs on the continent.

Trade between China and Africa continues to thrive, reaching 2.1 trillion RMB (approximately $280 billion) in 2024, a 6.1% increase from the previous year and a 24-fold rise since FOCAC’s inception. For 16 consecutive years, China has remained Africa’s largest trading partner.

Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s commitment to practical, people-centered development, stating, “To African brothers and sisters, China-Africa cooperation is visible, tangible, and truly beneficial.”

Nigeria stands as a key partner in China-Africa cooperation, with major infrastructure projects shaping economic progress. Notable achievements include the Lekki Deep Sea Port, four international airport terminals, and the Lagos Blue Line Light Rail, West Africa’s first electrified railway. In early 2024, the second phase of the Lagos light rail project was launched, enhancing urban transportation.

Trade relations continue to deepen, with the renewal of a three-year bilateral currency swap agreement worth 15 billion RMB/3.28 trillion Naira. Additionally, China’s Development Bank issued a 245-million-euro loan for the Kano-Kaduna Railway, while Nigeria’s Ogun Free Trade Zone, home to over 140 Chinese companies, has emerged as a regional economic hub. Nigerian agricultural exports, including peanuts, sesame, and cashews, are gaining traction in China’s market.

Beyond economic ties, China and Nigeria are strengthening cultural connections. Joint celebrations of the Lunar New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, and national anniversaries have become common, while Nigerian cultural performances—such as Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa dances—have gained popularity in China.

Wang Yi underscored China’s long-term vision for Africa, stating, “There will be no global modernization without African modernization.” China is committed to implementing key FOCAC initiatives, including zero-tariff treatment for African exports, fostering digital and green industries, and supporting Africa’s industrialization and agricultural development.

Quoting an African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together,” Wang reaffirmed China’s dedication to mutual progress. As China and Nigeria continue to strengthen their partnership, they aim to unlock new opportunities in digital innovation, artificial intelligence, and green energy, setting the stage for a new era of China-Africa cooperation.