President Bola Tinubu wrapped up his official visit to China on Friday, declaring the trip "perfect and successful" during a meeting with Nigerians residing there. The President’s visit included discussions with top Chinese officials and participation in the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit.
Addressing members of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization in China (NIDO China) and the broader Nigerian community at the China World Hotel, Tinubu reviewed the outcomes of his talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. He emphasized significant progress in areas including infrastructure development, trade, finance, energy, the green economy, and mining.
“My primary message to you all is to continue representing Nigeria with pride and dignity,” Tinubu told the gathering. “We will always celebrate our diversity. It is our strength, and through it, we must serve our country with honor.”
The President also underscored the importance of discipline and national service, drawing parallels with China’s societal order as a model for Nigerians. “China is a disciplined society, and we must adopt similar values. Without discipline and commitment, we cannot build a nation that commands respect globally,” Tinubu stated.
Tinubu assured Nigerians abroad that Nigeria’s Bank of Industry is poised to collaborate on projects aimed at boosting domestic investments. “Nigeria is undergoing major reforms, and we are making bold, unprecedented decisions. You’ve likely heard about changes back home, such as fuel price adjustments. But how can we build good roads, ensure constant electricity, and provide quality education without making tough choices?” he questioned.
Highlighting his admiration for Nigerians fluent in Mandarin, Tinubu urged them to continue leveraging their skills to drive positive change in Nigeria. “One of the key takeaways from my trip is the determination to replicate China’s impressive infrastructure in Nigeria. We want our children to learn in quality schools, not rundown buildings. We must foster innovation and create an environment where businesses of all sizes can thrive,” he said.
Tinubu acknowledged the challenges in achieving national consensus but reaffirmed his commitment to making necessary tough decisions for Nigeria’s advancement. “We are focused, and I have a great team backing me,” he added.
Dr. Oche Barnabas, President of NIDO China, praised Tinubu’s efforts to strengthen Nigeria-China relations, particularly in trade, investment, and cultural exchange. He also urged the President to support Nigeria’s recognition as a native English-speaking nation in China, which would enhance employment and educational opportunities for Nigerians.
“Nigeria’s English proficiency, exemplified by figures like Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, deserves recognition. This would open more avenues for Nigerians to study and work in China, boosting remittances to Nigeria,” Dr. Barnabas stated.
The President’s visit to China also included notable agreements, as Finance Minister Wale Edun disclosed. According to Edun, discussions between Tinubu and Xi Jinping resulted in agreements across various sectors, with a focus on infrastructural developments such as roads, railways, and seaports. He emphasized the importance of foreign direct investment, citing the Lekki port as a prime example of successful Chinese investment in Nigeria.
Both leaders agreed to elevate Nigeria-China relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership and to build a high-level community with a shared future.
Tinubu’s visit, which was extended at the invitation of President Xi Jinping, aimed to bolster Nigeria’s ties with China and explore new opportunities for bilateral cooperation.