Chinese consulate pledges continued support for NAN
Chinese consulate pledges continued support for NAN
The Consul- General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, Ms Yan Yuqing, has reaffirmed the mission’s commitment to supporting the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in areas of mutual interest.
Yan gave the assurance during a visit by the Head of Lagos Operations of NAN, Mrs Ifeyinwa Omowole, to the Chinese Consulate in Lagos at the invitation of the mission.
She said that 2026 would be significant for China and Nigeria as it would not only mark the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries but would also be the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchange.
The consul general highlighted China’s achievements in agricultural modernisation, and encouraged Nigeria to leverage its vast agricultural potential and the opportunities provided by China’s recently-implemented zero-tariff policy.
NAN reports that on May 1, China implemented a zero-tariff policy for exports from 53 African countries with diplomatic ties to Beijing.
According to Yan, Nigeria possesses high-quality agricultural products that can compete globally.
“Nigeria has some of the best cashew nuts, yams, sesame seeds and cassava. There is a lot the country can do in boosting agriculture.
“Nigeria has abundant arable land that can be used to strengthen its agricultural sector and increase exports,” she said.
Read Also: NGO targets girls’ digital readiness through AI-focused summer…
Yan said that Nigeria was lagging behind some African countries, including Kenya, South Africa and Tanzania, in taking advantage of opportunities in agricultural development and trade.
She described the zero-tariff policy as good news for African farmers, and urged Nigeria to move quickly to maximise its benefits.
Yan also noted that Nigeria was among the latest countries to sign the necessary memorandum of understanding under the zero-tariff policy.
“China is ready to partner with Nigerian agricultural institutes and schools, as well as facilitate collaboration with similar institutions in China to improve productivity through technology and modern farming practices.”
She said China remained committed to sharing its modernisation experience with Nigeria, particularly in agriculture and artificial intelligence.
The envoy said media organisations played a critical role in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting mutual understanding between peoples.
Omowole thanked the consul-general for support to the agency and for initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria-China relations.
She said NAN was planning to organise an agriculture expo that would showcase Nigerian agricultural products while leveraging Chinese expertise and technology to address gaps in the country’s agricultural value chain.
Omowole also commended the consul general for supporting women in leadership and career development.
She reiterated the agency’s commitment to deepening cooperation with the Chinese mission, particularly in agriculture, media development and people-to-people exchanges.
