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‘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.
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.
Federal Government Refutes Age Restrictions for NECO and WAEC Exams
The Federal Government has dismissed rumors suggesting that age restrictions apply to the National Examination Council (NECO) and West African Examination Council (WAEC) exams.
Dr. Tanko Sununu, the Minister of State for Education, clarified this in Abuja on Friday, affirming that there are no age limits for taking these exams. He explained that the age restriction applies only to the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and university entry, which will start at 18 years beginning in 2025.
Sununu pointed out that the National Policy on Education specifies that children should start primary school at age six, spend six years there, and then proceed to three years each in junior and senior secondary schools, totaling 18 years.
His remarks came during a briefing for the 2024 World Literacy Day, themed “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace.”
Sununu addressed the confusion, stating, “We have clarified this issue in various forums, but the misinformation persists. Neither the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, nor I have announced any age limit for WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB exams.”
He added, “Some individuals have misinterpreted our comments regarding UTME age restrictions and mistakenly applied them to WAEC and NECO. Our previous statements only pertained to university entry age, as outlined in the National Policy on Education.”
Sununu also highlighted that the policy supports teaching children in their local language or mother tongue until primary three, after which English is introduced. This approach, he noted, facilitates better communication and learning.
President Tinubu Pledges Bold Decisions for Nigeria’s Progress
President Bola Tinubu has affirmed his commitment to making the tough decisions needed for Nigeria’s progress. He acknowledged the challenge of achieving national consensus on various issues but underscored that such decisions are crucial for the country’s advancement.
Wrapping up his official visit to China, President Tinubu met with the Nigerian community and members of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDO China) at the China World Hotel. He described the trip as highly successful and beneficial.
During his visit, President Tinubu engaged in discussions with Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, and participated in the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). The focus was on boosting collaboration in areas such as infrastructure, trade, finance, energy, the green economy, and mining.
Addressing Nigerians in China, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of representing Nigeria positively and being exemplary citizens. He highlighted the need for discipline and dedication, drawing inspiration from China’s disciplined society.
The President encouraged Nigerians abroad to embrace their diversity, follow local laws, and project a positive image of their country. He stated:
“Nigeria is undergoing significant reforms, and we are making bold and unprecedented decisions. You might have heard recent news about fuel prices at home. But can we avoid these tough choices if we want to improve our infrastructure, like roads, electricity, and water supply? We aim to hand over a better future to our children, and that requires us to make hard decisions now.”
President Tinubu Wraps Up China Visit and Heads to London via Dubai
On Friday, September 6th, President Bola Tinubu concluded his official visit to China and is now en route to London, United Kingdom, with a stopover in Dubai.
Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, confirmed that the President will travel to the UK via Dubai.
During his visit, President Tinubu assured Nigerians in China that his administration is committed to good governance and aims to replicate China’s successes for the benefit of Nigeria. He made these remarks during a meeting with the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization in China (NIDO China) and the Nigerian community at the China World Hotel in Beijing.
The meeting marked President Tinubu’s final official engagement in China before his departure for London.
President Tinubu described his visit to China as “very good and successful.”
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