Nigeria, China celebrate 55 years of diplomatic ties, pledge stronger relations

Nigeria and China marked 55 years of diplomatic ties with a renewed commitment to deepening their relationship across cultural, economic, and technological spheres. The celebration, held at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja, featured an exhibition on traditional calligraphy and Tang Dynasty virtual reality.

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For 55 years, the friendship between China and Nigeria has been profound and enduring, and the two countries have achieved mutually beneficial development.

Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, emphasized the enduring and mutually beneficial nature of the bilateral relationship. He noted that the anniversary aligns with the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, making 2026 a particularly significant year for cooperation. "For 55 years, the friendship between China and Nigeria has been profound and enduring, and the two countries have achieved mutually beneficial development," Yang stated.

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Exchanges and visits between China and Nigeria in various fields are becoming increasingly frequent, and the friendship between the two peoples is growing stronger every day.

Exchanges between the two nations have reportedly become more frequent, strengthening ties between their citizens. Yang also pointed to China's recent implementation of zero-tariff policies for 53 African countries, including Nigeria, as a measure that will provide enhanced market opportunities and contribute to Nigeria's economic development and citizen well-being. The exhibition itself was described as a key initiative to promote cultural exchange and mutual learning.

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On May 1 this year, China began implementing zero-tariff measures for 53 African countries, including Nigeria, with which it has diplomatic relations. This will provide Nigeria and other African countries with more mutually beneficial market opportunities and will greatly contribute to Nigeria’s economic development and the improvement of people’s well-being.

The event also coincided with the International Day for Dialogue of Civilisations, prompting Yang to stress the importance of dialogue in fostering understanding and trust amid global tensions.

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Holding this exhibition is one of the important measures to promote cultural exchange and mutual learning between China and Nigeria.