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

Nigeria and China on Wednesday celebrated the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between both countries, with officials from the two nations reaffirming their commitment to deepening cultural, economic and technological cooperation.

Speaking at the opening of the “Fan, Charm and Ink Fragrance: Cultural Resonance of Traditional Calligraphy and Tang Dynasty Virtual Reality” exhibition at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja, the Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and Director of the China Cultural Centre, Yang Jianxing, described the relationship between the two countries as enduring and mutually beneficial.

According to him, the anniversary coincides with the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, making 2026 a significant year in bilateral relations.

“This year is of special significance, marking both the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria and the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.

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

Yang noted that exchanges between both countries had continued to expand across various sectors, strengthening ties between their citizens.

“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,” he added.

The Chinese envoy also highlighted China’s recent trade measures towards Africa, saying the implementation of zero-tariff policies for 53 African countries, including Nigeria, would create new opportunities for economic cooperation.

“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,” he said.

Yang described the exhibition as one of the initiatives aimed at promoting cultural exchange and mutual learning between the two countries.

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

The event also coincided with the International Day for Dialogue of Civilisations, observed annually on June 10 following a resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2024.

He stressed the need for countries to embrace dialogue amid growing global tensions.

“We must enhance understanding and cultivate mutual trust through dialogue, promote unity and seek consensus through exchanges, and continuously solidify the cultural foundation for building a community with a shared future for mankind,” Yang said.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mukhtar Muhammad, said Nigeria and China had built strong relations over the years and should continue to expand cooperation in innovation, science and technology.

“China and Nigeria have a lot to share, not only in terms of culture and heritage and tradition, but also in advancing the efficiency of human performance around the globe.

“Nigeria has the largest population in Africa, and therefore a dialogue with the Chinese civilisation is really something that will help us to advance further in terms of technology, innovation and science,” he said.

He added that several bilateral agreements had already been signed between the two countries and called for greater collaboration for the benefit of both nations.

“We have already established a lot of bilateral relationships, including several memoranda of understanding that have been signed between the two countries,” he said.

The exhibition, which features traditional Chinese calligraphy, paintings and immersive virtual reality experiences, will run at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja until July 10.

Nigeria and China established diplomatic relations on February 10, 1971, and have since expanded cooperation in trade, infrastructure, education, technology and cultural exchanges.

In 2026, both countries are commemorating the 55th anniversary of bilateral relations alongside the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, with officials highlighting cultural diplomacy as a key tool for strengthening mutual understanding and cooperation.