RismadarVoice Reporters
June 10, 2026
Nigeria and China on Wednesday celebrated the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, with officials pledging to strengthen cooperation in culture, trade, technology and innovation.
The anniversary was commemorated at the opening of the “Fan, Charm and Ink Fragrance: Cultural Resonance of Traditional Calligraphy and Tang Dynasty Virtual Reality” exhibition held at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, the Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and Director of the China Cultural Centre, Yang Jianxing, described the relationship between both countries as longstanding, productive and mutually beneficial.
Yang noted that the anniversary coincides with the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, making 2026 a significant year in bilateral relations.
He said Nigeria and China have maintained strong diplomatic ties over the past 55 years, with growing cooperation across various sectors and increasing exchanges between citizens of both countries.
The envoy also highlighted China’s implementation of zero-tariff measures for 53 African countries, including Nigeria, saying the policy would create new market opportunities and strengthen economic cooperation.
According to him, the initiative is expected to contribute to Nigeria’s economic development and improve the welfare of its citizens.
Yang described the cultural exhibition as part of efforts to promote mutual understanding, cultural exchange and learning between the two nations.
He also called for greater dialogue among nations, stressing the importance of cooperation and mutual trust in addressing global challenges.
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mukhtar Muhammad, said Nigeria and China share common interests in culture, technology, science and innovation.
Muhammad noted that stronger engagement with China would help Nigeria advance its technological and scientific development, adding that several bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding had already been signed between both countries.
He called for deeper collaboration to maximise the benefits of the longstanding partnership.
The exhibition, which showcases traditional Chinese calligraphy, paintings and virtual reality experiences, will remain open at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja until July 10.
Nigeria and China established diplomatic relations on February 10, 1971, and have since expanded cooperation in areas including trade, infrastructure, education, technology and cultural exchanges.
