Abuja: Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, announced that over 10,000 Nigerians from various sectors of the economy have benefited from Chinese government-sponsored exchange training programmes. Yu shared this information at the first Annual China-Nigeria Government Exchange Programme Alumni Reunion Gala held in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event gathered numerous Nigerians who have studied or been trained in China, highlighting the initiative’s impact on strengthening individual capacity and institutional effectiveness, which contributes to Nigeria’s national development. Ambassador Yu emphasized the event’s goal to maintain engagement among alumni, fostering a platform for collaboration, idea-sharing, and ongoing contributions to China-Nigeria relations.
Yu outlined that China has provided training in multiple sectors such as governance, poverty reduction, manufacturing, agriculture, public health, trade, investment, science, technology, innovation, blue economy, and digital economy. These programmes have significantly enhanced individual capabilities while supporting Nigeria’s economic and social growth.
The ambassador noted the alumni’s presence across key Nigerian cities, including Abuja, Lagos, Ibadan, and Maiduguri, showcasing the programme’s extensive reach. He referred to Nigeria and China as ‘natural partners’ with a long-standing friendship, exemplified by China’s opposition to external military threats against Nigeria and support for its international roles, such as backing its return to the International Maritime Organisation and its aspiration to join the G20.
Yu also discussed the economic cooperation between the two nations, revealing that bilateral trade surpassed 22 billion dollars in 2025, with China’s direct investment in Nigeria increasing by 130 per cent and Nigeria’s exports to China rising by over 200 per cent. Additionally, he announced China’s zero-tariff policy for all products from 53 African countries, including Nigeria.
Highlighting China as a reliable partner, Yu reiterated China’s readiness to work closely with Nigeria to achieve social and economic development. The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Social Development Secretariat, Mrs Olubunmi Olowookere, praised the initiative for enhancing social welfare, poverty alleviation, and community development efforts.
Mr Muhammad Kalgo, Special Assistant to the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, described the programme as insightful and humbling. He noted that it demonstrated the feasibility of poverty eradication through coordinated policies, leadership, and people-focused development. Kalgo concluded that the alumni reunion signifies a new beginning for further collaboration between the nations.
Source: News Agency of Nigeria