Abuja | November 6, 2025
China has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria in combating terrorism, strengthening internal security, and maintaining national stability.
The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai, gave the assurance in Abuja on Thursday, emphasizing that China considers Nigeria a strategic partner in Africa and remains committed to deepening cooperation across security, economic, and diplomatic fronts.
“China is willing to continue supporting Nigeria in combating terrorism and maintaining domestic stability,” Dunhai stated during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
Deepening Security Cooperation
Ambassador Yu said China recognizes the challenges Nigeria faces in addressing terrorism, banditry, and other forms of violent extremism, particularly in the North-East and North-West regions, and stands ready to enhance bilateral cooperation in intelligence, defense technology, and training.
“China and Nigeria share a common interest in peace and stability. Security is the foundation of development, and without stability, no nation can prosper,” he said.
He noted that China has maintained strong defense relations with Nigeria over the years, supplying military hardware, training personnel, and technical assistance to support counterterrorism operations.
Yu also highlighted China’s role in supporting peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts, stressing that both nations must continue to collaborate in addressing the root causes of insecurity, including poverty and unemployment.
“Our partnership goes beyond military aid — it is about building sustainable peace through development,” he added.
Nigeria Appreciates China’s Support
Responding, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar expressed appreciation for China’s long-standing partnership, noting that the Asian giant has been instrumental in providing equipment, logistics, and training support to Nigeria’s Armed Forces.
“China has proven to be a reliable friend and partner. Your continuous support in intelligence sharing, equipment supply, and capacity building has strengthened our national security architecture,” Badaru said.
He reaffirmed that Nigeria’s relationship with China remains built on mutual trust and respect, adding that the Federal Government is committed to maintaining close ties in line with the broader Nigeria–China Strategic Partnership.
“Our President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, places high priority on maintaining strong partnerships that support Nigeria’s peace and development. We are proud to count China as one of such partners,” the minister said.
Bilateral Relations: A Longstanding Partnership
The Nigeria–China relationship, which spans over five decades, has evolved into one of Africa’s most significant bilateral partnerships, encompassing trade, infrastructure, defense, and cultural exchange.
China has supported Nigeria through numerous initiatives, including:
- The supply of military hardware and armored vehicles to enhance counterterrorism operations.
- Training of Nigerian military personnel in defense academies and technical institutions in China.
- Joint security dialogues aimed at promoting regional stability.
Beyond defense, China remains a key development partner in Nigeria’s infrastructure and economic growth. Major projects like the Abuja–Kaduna railway, Zungeru hydropower plant, and several industrial parks were financed or constructed by Chinese firms.
China’s Global Position on Counterterrorism
Ambassador Yu Dunhai reiterated that China’s support for Nigeria aligns with its broader policy of promoting non-interference, mutual benefit, and peaceful development in Africa.
“China’s principle is clear: we respect the sovereignty of every nation while supporting global efforts to eradicate terrorism and promote peace,” he said.
He added that China recognizes Nigeria’s leadership role in West Africa and supports its efforts to foster regional stability through the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
“Nigeria is a major power in Africa. Its security is vital not only for Nigerians but for the entire subregion. China stands with Nigeria in safeguarding peace and development,” he emphasized.
The Broader Context: Global South Cooperation
Analysts say China’s renewed security commitment underscores its growing strategic engagement with Africa amid global geopolitical shifts.
Dr. Abdulmalik Yusuf, a lecturer in international relations at the University of Abuja, said China views Nigeria as a crucial ally in promoting South–South cooperation and multipolar global governance.
“Beijing sees Nigeria as an anchor for its Africa policy. Supporting Nigeria’s stability ensures a stronger partnership in trade, energy, and diplomacy,” Yusuf explained.
He noted that the partnership is mutually beneficial, as Nigeria gains investment, technology transfer, and military capacity, while China gains access to energy resources and market opportunities in Africa’s largest economy.
Tinubu Administration’s Focus on Strategic Partnerships
President Bola Tinubu’s administration has placed renewed emphasis on strengthening Nigeria’s international partnerships to tackle security and economic challenges.
Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Tinubu has pursued closer ties with global powers including the United States, China, the European Union, and Russia, emphasizing that Nigeria’s foreign policy will remain non-aligned yet interest-driven.
During a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping earlier this year, Tinubu had expressed appreciation for China’s continued investment in Nigeria and reaffirmed his government’s readiness to deepen collaboration in defense, technology, and infrastructure.
“We welcome all partnerships that contribute to our national growth and security. China has been a dependable ally, and we will continue to expand areas of cooperation,” Tinubu had said during the sidelines of the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) preparatory talks.
Security as a Foundation for Development
Ambassador Yu stressed that China’s assistance to Nigeria is guided by the belief that peace and development are inseparable.
He pointed out that insecurity disrupts economic activity, discourages investment, and worsens poverty, noting that China’s support aims to help Nigeria achieve sustainable growth through peace.
“Security and development are two sides of the same coin. Without peace, there can be no prosperity. China’s cooperation with Nigeria is aimed at achieving both,” he said.
He added that China will continue to collaborate with Nigeria in areas such as cybersecurity, anti-terror intelligence sharing, and counter-narcotics, emphasizing that modern security threats require a holistic and technology-driven approach.
Beyond Security: Strengthening Socioeconomic Ties
The Chinese envoy also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand cooperation beyond defense. He noted that China remains committed to supporting Nigeria’s industrialization, digital economy, and agriculture modernization.
“Security is important, but so is development. China is ready to invest in manufacturing, renewable energy, and skills transfer to help Nigeria achieve inclusive growth,” he said.
He added that China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) would continue to serve as a platform for greater connectivity between both nations through trade, innovation, and infrastructure development.
Looking Ahead
Both countries pledged to intensify high-level dialogues and explore new frameworks for joint training, intelligence exchange, and defense industry collaboration.
Defence Minister Badaru assured the ambassador that Nigeria would remain a dependable partner in fostering regional and global peace.
“We value this friendship deeply and will continue to work with China to strengthen peace and prosperity across Africa,” the minister concluded.
