By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
NIGERIA’s SENATE President, Godswill Akpabio, has called for greater support from China to address pressing development needs in Nigeria and Africa.
This appeal came during a meeting with a Chinese delegation led by Zhang Qingwei, Vice Chairman of China’s Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC), marking his first visit to Africa.
Senator Akpabio expressed concerns over a decline in China’s aid commitments to Africa, citing a drop in pledges made during the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
He stressed the importance of reversing this trend and fostering a deeper partnership.
“We must build a relationship that elevates the lives of our citizens and strengthens our economic, cultural, and social bonds,” Akpabio stated.
He highlighted Nigeria’s untapped potential, urging China to collaborate on projects that would transform the nation into an innovation and trade hub.
Akpabio also advocated for stronger parliamentary ties, proposing a Nigeria-China Parliamentary Friendship Group to enhance cooperation and exchange legislative practices.
Zhang Qingwei affirmed China’s commitment to strengthening ties, reiterating President Xi Jinping’s consensus with President Bola Tinubu to boost mutual trust and cooperation. He expressed hope for Nigeria’s progress in reforms and development.
