Nigeria Marks 55 Years of Diplomatic Ties with China

On October 2, 2026, Nigeria commemorated the 55th anniversary of its diplomatic relations with China, which were established on February 10, 1971. In a statement signed by Oluwafemi Adeniyi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerian government expressed its appreciation for the longstanding partnership with China.

The relationship has expanded to include cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure, energy, agriculture, defense, development cooperation, solid minerals, and culture. The establishment of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in September 2024 was noted as a significant development, providing a framework for deeper cooperation.

The Nigerian government highlighted the importance of leveraging China's zero-tariff policy for African countries and welcomed the implementation of outcomes from the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit. The anniversary is seen as an opportunity to consolidate gains and enhance exchanges between the two nations.

The statement also extended goodwill to Chinese President Xi Jinping and the people of China.