Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged the Chinese government to increase its aid flows to Africa, particularly Nigeria, to strengthen bilateral relations and support development.
Akpabio made the appeal on Tuesday during a meeting with Zhang Qingwei, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC) of China, in Abuja.
The visit marks Zhang’s first trip to Africa and aims to deepen ties between China and Nigeria.
Speaking at the meeting, Akpabio emphasized the need for greater collaboration, noting that Chinese aid commitments to Africa have declined in recent years.
He referenced the reduced pledges at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) compared to previous years.
“While China’s trade relations with Africa have continued to grow, I want to seize the opportunity offered by your visit to call on the Chinese government to increase aid flows to Africa, and particularly to Nigeria,” Akpabio said.
The Senate President also proposed stronger cooperation on projects that would enhance innovation and improve living conditions in Nigeria.
He suggested the establishment of a Nigeria-China Parliamentary Friendship Group to boost legislative collaboration between the two nations.
Responding, Zhang Qingwei reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s development and strengthening bilateral relations.
He said the visit was part of efforts to implement agreements reached by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during Tinubu’s recent visit to China.
“Our visit is to consolidate China-Nigeria friendship and mutual trust, enhance exchanges between legislatures, and step up communications in various areas to elevate bilateral relations to a new height,” Zhang said.
Zhang described Nigeria as a valued partner and pledged continued support for its development and reform initiatives.
The meeting reflects ongoing efforts to deepen ties between Nigeria and China, with both countries emphasizing the importance of mutual cooperation in trade, development, and governance.
Akpabio’s call for increased aid signals Nigeria’s push for a more balanced partnership with one of its largest trading partners.