‘I’m A Reformer With Verifiable Antecedents’ – Tinubu Signs 5 MoUs At Meeting With Chinese President, Xi Jinping

 President Tinubu Seeks to Strengthen Nigeria-China Relations for Economic Growth

President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the need to bolster the relationship between Nigeria and China to enhance trade and foster economic development.

During a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Tuesday, Tinubu stated that the ties between Nigeria and China have now been elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

He highlighted the ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s economy under his administration, noting his track record as a reformer with “verifiable antecedents.”

The president underscored Nigeria’s potential, particularly as the most populous country in Africa, with a young population capable of driving significant economic growth.

“This visit is of great importance not only for Nigeria but for the entire African continent, as I am here in my capacity as the Chairman of ECOWAS.

I appreciate the high level of honor you have accorded us,” Tinubu said, according to Ajuri Ngelale, the presidential spokesperson.

Tinubu also acknowledged the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and China, which has lasted over half a century. He stressed the importance of further strengthening these ties to advance trade and economic development programs.

“Relations between China and Nigeria have lasted for over 50 years and should be further strengthened to advance our trade and economic development programs,” he said.

He further stated, “Nigeria holds great potential as the largest country in Africa and the biggest economy, with a young population that can drive economic growth and cross-sectoral programs.

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We have elevated our relationship to a comprehensive developmental partnership, which should lead to robust development, stability, and security in the West African sub-region.”

Tinubu also drew parallels between his economic reforms in Nigeria and those implemented by President Xi in China, stating, “President Xi has reformed the Chinese economy, and our reform program in Nigeria is on a similar path.

I am a reformer with verifiable antecedents. We are diligently reforming our economy through tax and tariff reviews and other initiatives.”

He assured trading and investment partners of easy access to bring in their investments and the ability to repatriate their resources seamlessly.

On his part, President Xi Jinping expressed optimism about the strengthened ties between China and Nigeria, which he believes will inject fresh energy into China-Africa relations in the new era and spearhead collective progress among Global South countries.

“We have discovered the strength of unity and win-win cooperation,” said President Xi. “As major developing countries, the strategic coordination between China and Nigeria will invigorate China-Africa relations and drive progress among Global South countries.”

Both leaders also witnessed the signing of various memoranda of understanding (MoUs), including a cooperation plan to promote the Belt and Road Initiative jointly, peaceful application of nuclear energy, human resource development under the Global Development Initiative, and media exchange and cooperation between China Media Group and the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).

The two presidents also agreed to build a high-level Nigeria-China community with a shared future.

President Tinubu departed Abuja last Thursday for his official visit to China, where he is also expected to attend the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), scheduled from September 4 to 6.