The Chinese government has pledged about N40 billion (RMB 200 million) in grant assistance to Nigeria to support development projects and strengthen economic and diplomatic relations between both countries.
The announcement was made on Thursday during a meeting between China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, and the Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr Ahmed Dunoma, in Abuja.
According to a statement from the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, the grant is expected to support projects jointly agreed upon by the Nigerian and Chinese governments. The assistance is part of China’s wider effort to deepen cooperation with Nigeria and contribute to the country’s development goals.
Speaking during the meeting, Ambassador Yu noted that China and Nigeria have maintained strong relations for more than 55 years. He described both countries as important partners in China-Africa relations.
The ambassador also said the relationship between the two nations has entered a new phase, particularly under the leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He explained that both governments have continued to maintain regular communication while working to implement agreements reached by their leaders. These include commitments made during the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit.
According to Yu, China wants the benefits of its cooperation with Nigeria to have a direct impact on citizens in both countries.
“To further support Nigeria’s national development and economic growth, China will provide RMB 200 million in grant assistance to Nigeria for the implementation of projects agreed upon by the two governments,” the ambassador said.
The grant comes at a time when Nigeria is seeking additional support and investment to address infrastructure gaps, improve public services and strengthen economic growth.
Unlike a loan, grant assistance generally does not require repayment, meaning the funding could provide relief for selected development projects without adding directly to Nigeria’s debt burden.
Responding to the announcement, Dunoma appreciated the Chinese government for its continued support for Nigeria’s economic and social development.
He described the grant as evidence of the strong friendship between both countries and China’s commitment to supporting Nigeria.
Dunoma assured the Chinese government that Nigeria would ensure the funds are used effectively for agreed development projects.
He also expressed Nigeria’s willingness to continue working with China to implement existing agreements and expand cooperation between the two countries.
The latest commitment further highlights the growing economic relationship between Nigeria and China, with both sides seeking to increase cooperation in areas that can support development and improve the welfare of their citizens.
For Nigeria, effective implementation of the projects supported by the grant will be important in ensuring that the promised assistance translates into tangible benefits for the economy and the wider population.
