By Maryam Suleiman Yusuf

The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria on Wednesday hosted a grand reception in Abuja to commemorate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. The event reaffirmed the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries. It drew senior Nigerian government officials, legislators, diplomats, and business leaders.

In his keynote address, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Yu Dunhai, underscored the symbolic significance of October 1—celebrated as National Day in China and Independence Day in Nigeria—describing it as “a shared national memory that binds our two peoples together.”

Yu highlighted China’s development strides over the past seven decades, including lifting more than 800 million people out of poverty and achieving sustained economic growth. He reiterated Beijing’s commitment to promoting peace, cooperation, and mutual benefit through initiatives such as the Global Governance Initiative (GGI), while deepening bilateral cooperation in trade, infrastructure, health, and education.

The envoy cited major ongoing projects, including the Lekki Deep Sea Port, expected to generate $360 billion in economic impact and 170,000 jobs, the Abuja Water Supply Project, which will provide clean water to over 3 million residents, and ongoing discussions to establish Africa’s first local insulin production facility in Nigeria. He also pointed to growing people-to-people exchanges, citing the achievements of Isa Fatima Abiola, Nigeria’s first female train driver trained in China, and Kano-born Ibrahim Ismail, who gained recognition for his fluency in Mandarin.

Speaking on behalf of Deputy Senate President Babangida Hussaini, a representative of the National Assembly, lauded China’s transformation as “a story of hope and a testament to what is possible when people unite behind a clear vision.” He stressed that the Nigeria-China relationship has evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership, reflected in collaborations spanning infrastructure, energy, agriculture, defence, and cultural exchange.

“Our two nations cherish the values of sovereignty, dignity, and renewal,” he said. “This coincidence of national days has become a powerful emblem of solidarity. Together, Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda and China’s Belt and Road Initiative open new opportunities for growth, connectivity, and shared prosperity.”

Lawmakers present further pledged to strengthen parliamentary diplomacy with China’s National People’s Congress, ensuring accountability and sustainability in bilateral projects.

The evening also featured cultural performances by a visiting Shenzhen arts troupe, which drew enthusiastic applause from dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps, and invited guests.