Speaker Obasa celebrates Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership at China’s 76th anniversary, highlighting trade, defence, and infrastructure cooperation

Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership was in sharp focus as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dr. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, joined dignitaries to celebrate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

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Held at the Grand Ballroom of the Oriental Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, on Monday, September 22, the vibrant event welcomed members of the diplomatic corps, government representatives, private sector leaders, and members of the Chinese community in Nigeria.

Delivering a keynote address titled ‘Nigeria-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’, Speaker Obasa offered warm congratulations to the Chinese government and people.

He raised a toast to the evolving relationship between the two nations, both of which celebrate their independence on October 1st.

Tracing bilateral ties back to 1971, Obasa applauded the strong foundation of mutual respect that has defined Nigeria-China relations over the decades.

He noted that, despite global challenges, cooperation has remained fruitful and trust between both countries has deepened.

Citing a recent statement by Chinese Consul General Yan Yuqing, Obasa highlighted that bilateral trade between Nigeria and China reached $15.48 billion between January and July 2025.

He also mentioned the renewal of a 15 billion Yuan ($2 billion) currency swap agreement, a key move to enhance trade by reducing reliance on the US dollar.

He further referenced the strengthening of military ties, particularly in local arms production and training, pointing to growing Chinese support for Nigeria’s security sector.

These developments, Obasa said, stem from the resolutions made during President Tinubu’s State Visit to China in September 2024, and the FOCAC Summit in Beijing, which upgraded relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

“Both Presidents agreed that Nigeria and China, as major developing nations, are entering a new era of partnership based on strategic trust and support for shared interests,” Obasa said.

He commended China’s alignment with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on economic recovery, national unity, and improved welfare for Nigerians.

Obasa also gave special mention to China’s investments in Lagos, noting the transformative impact on roads, bridges, and rail infrastructure.

“Our economic landscape has been significantly enriched through these vital projects,” he remarked.

Obasa called for continuous cooperation on global issues such as climate change and economic inequality, expressing optimism about a future of shared prosperity.

In her welcome remarks, Consul General Yan Yuqing echoed Obasa’s sentiments.

She described Nigeria as China’s second-largest trading partner in Africa, noting that cooperation across sectors like infrastructure, energy, education, and culture has been fruitful.

She urged the Chinese community in Nigeria to continue serving as cultural and developmental bridges between both nations.

“Guided by mutual respect and benefit, our all-round cooperation is yielding tangible results for our people,” Yuqing affirmed.

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As the evening closed with cultural performances and diplomatic camaraderie, the event reinforced the enduring strength and expanding scope of the Nigeria-China strategic partnership— a relationship poised to flourish in the years ahead.