Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has stated that his administration is committed to deepening its cooperation with the People’s Republic of China in areas such as renewable energy, healthcare, and education, adding that together, they will build a brighter and better future.
The Governor said this today at the Reception in Celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China, held at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat noted that the collaboration between Lagos State and China has been instrumental in driving key infrastructure developments in the state. He emphasized that the State Government considers China as a partner and a nation whose friendship has helped to unlock new potentials in the sub-Saharan region.
The Governor noted that projects like the Lekki Deep Seaport, the Lekki Free Trade Zone, and the Lagos-Ibadan railway, all demonstrate the positive outcomes of the cooperation between the two parties, as they have not only enhanced the state’s economic capacities but have also created jobs and opportunities for thousands of Nigerians, improving their overall quality of life.
Speaking further, the governor stated that beyond economic cooperation, the Chinese community has been a valuable part of Lagos society, promoting cultural diversity, and enriching the vibrant fabric of Lagos. He, therefore, commended the community for this; noting that Lagos has witnessed the growth of Chinese language schools, cultural centres, and businesses, enriching its city and promoting understanding between the people.
“Beyond economic cooperation, the Chinese community in Lagos has also become an integral part of our social fabric, contributing to the rich diversity that defines our great state. The warmth and unity between our peoples are a testament to the strength of our shared values and common aspirations,” he said.
Commenting on the transformation China has witnessed over the past 75 years, Sanwo-Olu described the transformation as nothing short of extraordinary. He noted that the country has overcome challenges of the past to become a global powerhouse in technology, manufacturing, and economic growth adding that China’s story has become a symbol of resilience, vision, and commitment.
In her welcome address, the Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, Ms. Yan Yuging stated that the Chinese Consulate General in Lagos will continue to work diligently with the state, building on the new positioning of China-Nigeria comprehensive strategic partnership, pursuing the new goals of modernization, exploring new fields of cooperation based on mutual benefit, and implementing the new measures of the ten partnership actions.
Ms. Yuging added that the Chinese Community will continue to serve its compatriots in the consular district, promote China-Nigeria friendly exchanges and mutually beneficial cooperation, and work together to build a higher-level China-Nigeria and China-Africa community with a shared future.
Speaking further, the Consul-General stated that over the past 75 years since the founding of New China, the country has pursued its dreams with relentless effort and determination, rising from a “latecomer to modernization” to a “driving force of global modernization.” She said, China has become the world’s second-largest economy and has successfully eliminated absolute poverty.
She noted that China-Nigeria bilateral trade has increased from $10.56 billion in 2010 to $22.56 billion in 2023 and that exchanges in various fields are more active than ever, with vibrant interaction in tourism, culture, youth, and media, solidifying the foundation of public support. “As long as we stand shoulder to shoulder, hand in hand, passing the baton of China-Africa friendship across generations, we will surely navigate the great ship of China-Africa solidarity and cooperation toward a bright future.”, she said.
In his goodwill address, the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Nigeria-China Relations, Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu noted that the 53rd anniversary of the diplomatic relationship of both Nigeria and China is commendable and that Nigeria is ready and willing to take from their innovative ideas to build a country that is suitable for everyone.
According to Hon. Yakubu, “Today marks the 53rd anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and China. The achievement has only demonstrated enormous resilience, focus, hard work, strategic diplomacy, global development, and dynamics with global collaboratively engaging advanced humanity.”
He stressed that the collaboration between both nations has strengthened the bond between China and Africa. Adding that “we acknowledge the invaluable contribution of Chinese entrepreneurs which has rekindled our engagement and our friendship has always been on mutual respect and recommendation. This has brought bilateral support at multilateral levels.”
Highlight of the event was the launch of the special China-Nigeria Friendship Publication, a special Promotional Video, and “75th Anniversary of New China Photo Exhibition, and the Presentation of the “China-Nigeria Friendship Contribution Award.”
