China Presents Nigeria With Development Model, As Tinubu-Led Government Assures Sustained Bilateral Relations

As part of China's efforts to strengthen relations with Nigeria, Chinese ambassador Cui Jianchun promised the west African country tested development strategies.

During a meeting held on Monday with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation of Nigeria George Akume, Cui shared three documents that contained developmental strategies, which the country can adapt to improve its economy, Punch reported.

Cui also assured that China's government was supportive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government and would assist in the implementation of these development strategies.

The meeting came a day after China showed its support to Nigeria by sending three Chinese warships on Sunday.

Following the meeting, Nigeria's Information Director Willie Bassey disclosed the developmental strategy blueprints can help any country in its advancement, including in the fields of infrastructure, ICT, industrialization investment, security, technology, and agriculture, among others.

"[Jianchun] expressed his readiness and commitment to work with the present administration and further deepen the bilateral relations between the two nations," Bassey added.

In turn, Akume also assured China of sustained bilateral relations.

"We want to thank your country for the massive investment in the areas of infrastructure in this country," Akume said, The Sun reported. "Nigeria got a soft loan from your country and carefully invested in rail transportation and road transportation. The differences are becoming quite clear."

Akume further shared that Nigeria was expecting more investments from China.

"I believe that is why you are here with your businessmen as well," he added. "Any assistance you are giving us, we will step up because of the desire of the present government to do a lot. We will be expecting support from you from time to time."

Akume thanked China for granting scholarships to young Nigerians studying in the Asian country, before appealing to the government to provide more financial aid to the students.

He emphasized that China won't regret this scholarship decision, adding that soon many Nigerians would start speaking Mandarin and Cantonese.

"We look forward to the time we will also establish faculties in Nigerian universities where the Chinese language would be taught to students," Akume concluded.

It was reported earlier this month that China will be training 3,000 Nigerian youths for cultural tourism to boost Nigeria's economy in order to reduce unemployment and crime rate.