china navy visit nigeria

Chinese navy’s 5-day Nigeria visit marks rare West Africa foray

The arrival of Chinese naval fleet in Nigeria comes amid speculation that the Gulf of Guinea could offer a base for Beijing.

A naval fleet of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) led by the warship Nanning arrived on Sunday in Nigeria for a rare visit by the Chinese military to Africa’s Atlantic coast, where Beijing has long made efforts to grow its influence.

The Chinese ambassador to Nigeria hailed the five-day visit as a milestone in ties, and the Nigerian navy expressed willingness to work with China to tackle maritime security threats and maintain stability in the Gulf of Guinea, the Chinese embassy said in a statement on Monday.

Keep reading

Russia-ukraine war: list of key events, day 816, gantz threatens to quit israeli gov’t if no post-war gaza plan, three reported killed as dr congo military averts ‘attempted coup’, israel says bodies of three captives killed on october 7 recovered in gaza.

The destroyer and an accompanying frigate, Sanya, along with a supply ship, Weishanhu, arrived off the port of Lagos, with the Nanning berthing for a port of call through Thursday, the Nigerian navy said in a statement.

Oil-rich West Africa is part of the Gulf of Guinea and is an important global exporter of crude.

The Gulf of Guinea, described by the International Maritime Bureau as one of the world’s most dangerous and important shipping routes, covers 11,000sq km (4,247sq miles) and stretches from Angola to Senegal.

Since 2021, piracy cases have been on the decline due to cooperation among countries in the region and deployments of foreign naval ships, according to the United Nations Security Council.

Two of those countries, Angola and Nigeria, are among China’s top oil suppliers. Major Chinese oil explorer CNOOC Ltd also engages in deep-sea production off the coast of Nigeria.

In January, Nigeria opened a billion-dollar Chinese-built deep seaport in Lagos. State-owned China Harbour Engineering Co and the Singapore-based Tolaram group have a joint 75 percent stake in the new Lekki deep sea port, one of the region’s biggest.

Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria Cui Jianchun called the project a “game changer”.

There has also been speculation the Gulf of Guinea could offer a base for China’s military. Last year, American defence officials expressed concern that such a base, possibly in Equatorial Guinea, could threaten US national security.

In 2017, China opened its first overseas naval base in Djibouti, one of the world’s most important choke points for maritime trade, fanning concern that Beijing might set up more regional “logistics facilities” as its military develops the capacity to operate thousands of kilometres from home.

Over the last three decades, China has widened its influence in almost every African nation through investment, trade and loans.

In 2016, the cash-strapped island nation of Sao Tome and Principe in the gulf established relations with Beijing after cutting ties with democratically governed Taiwan, which China claims as part of its territory.

• Our USPP Store
• Our Amazing Team
• Cookies Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Retraction and Correction policy and fee
• Privacy Policy
• Advertising Policies

• Unmanned systems
• iNSIGHT Resources
• Press Release

Chinese navy flotilla visits Nigeria

A naval fleet from China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has made a significant voyage to Nigeria, marking a rare visit by the Chinese military to Africa’s Atlantic coast. Led by the destroyer Nanning, the fleet arrived on Sunday, highlighting China’s ongoing efforts to expand its influence in the region.

The Chinese ambassador to Nigeria hailed this five-day visit as a milestone in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. In a statement issued by the Chinese embassy on Monday, the Nigerian navy also expressed its willingness to collaborate with China to address maritime security threats and maintain stability in the Gulf of Guinea.

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Chi Chun, said the visit of the delegation from China “is to deepen the relationship between the two countries and also seek improved cooperation with each other.

“This visit demonstrates the harmony and symphony between Nigeria and China,” he said.

The Chinese Navy Escort Task Group (ETG) 162, comprising the PLA destroyer Nanning, PLA frigate Sanya, and supply ship Weishanhu, arrived in Nigeria to enhance the cooperation and strengthen the ties between the two nations. This visit holds strategic significance for both parties.

Nanning (162) is a 7,500 ton Type 052DL destroyer of the People’s Liberation Army Navy, the ship was launched on 23 February 2019 at the Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai, and commissioned on 12 April 2021.

Nanning in March carried out a joint naval exercise with Iranian and Russian warships in the Gulf of Oman, and then returned to its escort mission in the Gulf of Aden and waters off Somalia before heading to Nigeria.

Sanya (574) is a Type 054A frigate of the People’s Liberation Army Navy. She was commissioned on 30 November 2012. In June, Sanya was part of the 43rd Chinese naval escort taskforce that docked in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire’s economic powerhouse, for a four-day visit aimed at promoting goodwill.

China has been actively seeking to expand its presence in Africa, particularly in terms of trade, investment, and infrastructure development. The visit of the Chinese naval fleet to Nigeria demonstrates Beijing’s commitment to deepening its engagement with African countries, even extending its military cooperation.

China’s efforts to increase its economic and military footprint in Africa appear to be gaining momentum as Beijing intends to establish a military base in West Africa to counter the United States presence.

The Gulf of Guinea, a region known for its abundant oil resources, has been grappling with piracy, illegal fishing, and other maritime security challenges. Nigeria, being a prominent country in the region, has been at the forefront of efforts to combat these threats. By collaborating with China, Nigeria aims to bolster its maritime security capabilities and benefit from China’s expertise in naval operations.

Recent U.S. intelligence reports suggest China intends to establish its first permanent military presence on the Atlantic Ocean in Equatorial Guinea. US defence officials believe the Chinese want a base on the Atlantic coast where they can replenish naval combat units with fuel, ammunition, and consumables as well as create a facility where they can repair warships. Nevertheless, the US is determined to stop China’s naval expansion drive .

During the visit, the Chinese and Nigerian navies may hold a series of joint exercises and training drills, including anti-piracy drills and search and rescue exercises. The two sides also held talks on maritime security cooperation and exchanged views on regional security issues.

“During their period of stay, our men will be interacting, we will be having some sporting activities, exchange of mementos and gifts.” Chun said.

This visit also provides an opportunity for both countries to strengthen their diplomatic ties and explore avenues for future collaboration. The Chinese fleet’s presence in Nigeria sends a clear message of China’s intent to play a more active role in ensuring regional stability and security.

As the Chinese naval fleet concludes its visit to Nigeria after five days, the positive exchanges and discussions between the two nations pave the way for enhanced cooperation in various fields. The visit further underscores China’s growing influence and engagement in Africa’s Atlantic region, setting the stage for deeper collaboration between China and Nigeria in the future.

The Chinese navy’s visit to Nigeria also comes at a time when the Gulf of Guinea is fighting maritime security threats, including piracy, armed robbery at sea, and illegal oil bunkering. The Chinese navy’s presence in the region is seen as a way to help Nigeria and other countries in the region to address these threats.

The visit of the Chinese naval fleet to Nigeria is a positive development for the bilateral relationship between the two countries. It is a sign of China’s growing commitment to Africa and its willingness to cooperate with African countries on security issues. The visit is also a boost for the Nigerian navy, which is facing growing maritime security threats. The joint exercises and training drills between the two navies will help to improve the Nigerian navy’s capabilities and its ability to respond to these threats.

Similarly, last month a Spanish warship named ESPS Audaz docked in Lagos to reinforce the military ties between Nigeria and Spain and deliver defence diplomacy.

Audaz, constructed by  Navantia , is one of the four OPVs (Offshore Patrol Vessels) built for the Spanish Navy under the extension of “1st series navy ships”.

Recommended for you

Join 154,765 others in receiving our trusted defence news

Related News

TerraHaptix shifts focus from Defence to commercial market

60-year journey of the Nigerian Air Force: Exclusive interview with Air Marshal HB Abubakar with Chief of Air Staff

South Africa’s Cutting-Edge Military Arsenal: Exploring Six Formidable Weapons

Epail supplies locally produced Mengshi armoured vehicles to Nigeria

© 2023 Military Africa

• Africa Collective

Business Insider Edition

• United States
• International
• Deutschland & Österreich

The Chinese navy intends to protect Nigeria’s resources off its coasts

• China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) naval squadron, led by the warship Nanning, makes a historic visit to Nigeria. 
• The Chinese ambassador to Nigeria highlights the visit as a crucial moment for collaboration, with the Nigerian navy expressing willingness to work with China in addressing maritime security concerns in the Gulf of Guinea, known for piracy and oil theft. 
• As Nigeria serves as a vital source of oil for China, the visit holds economic significance, with China recently completing a $1 billion deep-sea port in Lagos. 

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) naval squadron led by the warship Nanning landed in Nigeria on Sunday for a rare visit by the Chinese military to Africa's Atlantic coast, where Beijing has long sought to expand its influence.

Recommended articles

The Chinese ambassador to Nigeria lauded the five-day visit as a watershed moment in bilateral relations, and the Nigerian navy indicated a willingness to collaborate with China to address maritime security concerns and preserve stability in the Gulf of Guinea, according to a statement issued by the Chinese embassy on Monday.

Later, the Chinese ambassador to Nigeria Cui Jianchun, informed the BBC that the purpose of the Chinese naval fleet's visit to Lagos was to increase security in the waters off of West Africa and East Africa, which are notorious for piracy and oil theft.

"Peace is not free, peace should be defended. So I think that we need military security collaboration, so Africa-China, Nigeria-China can do things to not only safeguard the peace but to protect the vessels in the Gulf of Aden and also here in the Gulf of Guinea,” Cui Jianchun said.

Nigeria is a significant source of oil to China, and in Lagos, China just completed a deep sea port at a cost of $1 billion (£787 million).

"The Nigerian navy can benefit from the Chinese partners. First, they can exchange technology and also experiences," the ambassador said, also noting that they might also help to create confidence between the two parties.

Additionally, he relayed his thought about how the two nations might work together more on infrastructure, technology, and other fronts.

China constructed its first naval outpost overseas in Djibouti in 2017, and there have been rumors that China may also want to establish a military facility on the Atlantic coast of Africa. US defense officials raised alarm about similar goals last year.

However, the Chinese envoy tried to downplay such concerns, he stated, “We are working not to only serve the Chinese nation. We are also working to do something for human progress and also the harmony of the world.”

The Chinese naval squadron visited Ivory Coast and Ghana for four days before landing in Nigeria. They will go to Gabon and the Democratic Republic of the Congo before returning home.

FOLLOW BUSINESS INSIDER AFRICA

Thanks for signing up for our daily insight on the African economy. We bring you daily editor picks from the best Business Insider news content so you can stay updated on the latest topics and conversations on the African market, leaders, careers and lifestyle. Also join us across all of our other channels - we love to be connected!

Attempted coup in DR Congo stopped by military forces

The us revives aviation deal with nigeria, tanzania to establish its first space agency and satellite, top 5 major african cities where paying rent is better than buying a house, russia partners with comoros to tackle conflicts in africa, nigeria will have no need to import petrol from next month - dangote, the future of slot online: trends to watch in the coming years, nigeria challenges us over arms sales ban and reliance on fake news, top 5 major african cities with the best climate situation.

Robert Kiyosaki says US dollar will lose global dominance as soon as ‘BRICS gold crypto’ emerges

EAC trade with Africa sees significant rise, while trade with the West declines

Nigeria's inflation rose for the 16th consecutive month in April

Welcome to Africanews

Please select your experience

• Science & Technology
• Coronavirus

Breaking News

Gulf of Guinea: Chinese navy on "friendly visit" to Nigeria

Three Chinese naval vessels made a five-day stopover in the waters of Lagos, Nigeria's economic capital, on Sunday during a rare visit to the Gulf of Guinea, the Nigerian and Chinese authorities said on Monday.

"This is a friendly visit" aimed at "improving diplomacy" between China and Nigeria, Nigerian navy spokesman Rear Admiral Ayo-Vaughan told AFP on Monday.

One of the ships docked on Sunday at the Apapa port in Lagos, where a ceremony was held. The Chinese ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun, said that this "visit was a major event in recent years".

This event "testifies to a high level of trust" between the two countries, which will "strengthen" the ties between the two navies, particularly in terms of "jointly resolving regional security problems", he added, quoted in a statement published on the embassy's website.

A crucial maritime route bordering countries rich in hydrocarbons, the Gulf of Guinea, which stretches over 5,700 kilometres between Senegal and Angola, has for several years been the new black spot for global piracy, even if acts of piracy have recently slowed down.

China has very close economic and financial ties with Nigeria, Africa's most populous country. In particular, it has invested massively in infrastructure, such as the new deep-water port of Lekki, on the outskirts of Lagos.

When it comes to security cooperation, Nigeria, which is plagued by serious insecurity including piracy and jihadist conflict in the north-east, looks mainly to the United States, one of its main suppliers of military equipment.

Last year, US defence officials expressed concern about Chinese plans for a military base on the Atlantic coast of West Africa.

Related articles

Chinese mining company opens lithium processing plant in Zimbabwe

Russia to test missile in drills with China and South Africa

From the same country.

Funke Akindele, Mo Abudu & Jade Osiberu make Hollywood Reporter’s Powerful Women in film list

Mosque attack in northern Nigeria leaves 8 people dead

Mosque attack in Nigeria's north injures at least 24 people, including children

On the same subject.

Pics of the day: May 16, 2024

China's Xi reaffirms strong partnership with Russia in talks with Putin

Chinese-built Ethiopia-Djibouti Railway marks six years of operation

Go to video

Chinese supermarket in abuja shut for allegedly barring nigerians.

China revokes win for He Jie after investigation into half marathon

Tanzanian president in Turkey for 5-day state visit

More stories.

Democratic Republic Of Congo

Attempted coup in the democratic republic of the congo thwarted.

East Africa

Extreme weather pummeling the world.

Israel-Hamas war: Displaced Palestinians from Rafah struggle to survive

• Contributors
• What's New
• Other Sports
• Marie Claire
• Appointments
• Business News
• Business RoundUp
• Capital Market
• Communications
• Social Media
• Love and Relationships
• On The Cover
• Travel and Places
• Visual Arts
• BusinessAgro
• Executive Motoring
• Executive Briefs
• Friday Worship
• Youth Speak
• Corporate Social Responsibility
• Philanthropy
• Social Impact
• Environment
• Mortgage Finance
• Real Estate
• Urban Development
• Youth Magazine
• Life & Style
• Love & Life
• Travel & Tourism
• Brand Intelligence
• Weekend Beats
• Ibru Ecumenical Centre
• News Feature
• Living Healthy Diet
• Living Wellbeing
• Guardian TV

• Iran media says President Raisi died in helicopter crash

China visits Nigeria with 3 ships, strengthens bilateral relationship

Nigerian Navy PHOTO: Twitter

The Chinese Navy Escort Task Group (ETG) 162, comprising MSL Destroyer NANNING, MSL Frigate SANYA, and Supply Ship WEISHANHU, on Sunday visited Nigeria to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries. The Chinese envoy with senior Nigerian Navy personnel at NPA.

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Chi Jian Chun, said that the visitation of the Chinese envoy, scheduled for July 2 to 6, would also enhance maritime security within West Africa.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that MSL Destroyer NANNING, made the port call at Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) Berth 21, while the other two ships remained at anchorage.

Chun said that the delegation from China was big with more than 700 people and three ships to Nigeria.

“The visit is to further deepen the relationship the two countries have with one another and also seek to strengthen and improve our relationship and cooperation with each other.

“This visit demonstrates the harmony and symphony between Nigeria and China,” he said.

The ambassador said that China and Nigeria would continue to work together and promote peace and harmony while also seeking ways to make contributions to the international community.

“I believe that this visit will deepen the cooperation between both countries military sector so that we can work together to overcome obstacles.

“We will continue to do more things to facilitate and promote the relationship between the two countries,” Chun said.

Also, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Adm. Joseph Akpan, said the visitation would further help to cement the relationship between the two countries.

This is “especially between the Nigerian Navy and the Chinese Navy as well as the military. This will help us fight crimes, especially in the Gulf of Guinea.

“During their period of stay, our men will be interacting, we will be having some sporting activities, exchange of momentous and gifts.

“We will also discuss the future of both navies, especially on how we can benefit from each other,” Akpan said.

The FOC added that the term called ‘sea riders’ enabled some of the Nigerian Navy personnel onboard the Chinese ship and they could also have some of their own men onboard our ship.

“This helps to foster friendship across the horizon,” Akpan said.

In this article

• China-Nigeria Relations

cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Why are you flagging this comment?

I disagree with this user

Targeted harassment - posted harassing comments or discussions targeting me, or encouraged others to do so

Spam - posted spam comments or discussions

Inappropriate profile - profile contains inappropriate images or text

Threatening content - posted directly threatening content

Private information - posted someone else's personally identifiable information

Before flagging, please keep in mind that Disqus does not moderate communities. Your username will be shown to the moderator, so you should only flag this comment for one of the reasons listed above.

We will review and take appropriate action.

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox every day of the week. Stay informed with the Guardian’s leading coverage of Nigerian and world news, business, technology and sports.

Please Enable JavaScript in your Browser to Visit this Site.

TheJakartaPost

Please Update your browser

Your browser is out of date, and may not be compatible with our website. A list of the most popular web browsers can be found below. Just click on the icons to get to the download page.

• Destinations
• Jakpost Guide to
• Newsletter New
• Mobile Apps
• Tenggara Strategics
• B/NDL Studios

• Archipelago
• Election 2024
• Regulations
• Asia & Pacific
• Middle East & Africa
• Entertainment
• Arts & Culture
• Environment
• Work it Right
• Quick Dispatch
• Longform Biz
• Middle East and Africa

Chinese navy makes rare foray into West Africa with Nigeria visit

The Chinese ambassador to Nigeria hailed the five-day visit as a milestone in ties, and the Nigerian navy expressed willingness to work with China to tackle maritime security threats and maintain stability in the Gulf of Guinea, the Chinese embassy said in a  statement  on Monday.

Share This Article

Change size.

naval fleet of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) led by the destroyer Nanning arrived in Nigeria on Sunday for a rare visit by the Chinese military to Africa's Atlantic coast, where Beijing has long made efforts to grow its influence. 

The destroyer and an accompanying frigate, Sanya, along with a supply ship, Weishanhu, arrived off the port of Lagos, with the Nanning berthing for a port call through Thursday, the  Nigerian navy  said in a statement.

Oil-rich West Africa is an important global exporter of crude. The region, mostly Angola and Nigeria, is among China's top oil suppliers. Major Chinese oil explorer CNOOC Ltd also engages in deep-sea production off the coast of Nigeria. 

In January, Nigeria opened a billion-dollar Chinese-built deep seaport in Lagos. The new Lekki deep sea port, one of the region's biggest, is 75 percent-owned by state-owned China Harbour Engineering Co. and the Singapore-based Tolaram group.

There has also been speculation the Gulf of Guinea could offer a base for China's military. Last year, US defence officials expressed concern that such a base, possibly in  Equatorial Guinea , could threaten US national security. 

In 2017, China opened its first overseas naval base in Djibouti, one of the world's most important choke points for maritime trade, fanning concern that Beijing might set up more regional "logistics facilities" as its military develops the capacity to operate thousands of kilometres from home. 

Over the last three decades, China has widened its influence in almost every African nation through investment, trade and loans. 

In 2016, the cash-strapped island nation of Sao Tome and Principe in the Gulf established relations with Beijing after cutting ties with democratically governed Taiwan, which China claims as part of its territory. 

Prone to fire and fresh air problems, people in Tambora figure out life in a slum area

Tycoon Musk touches down in Bali for Starlink launch

Red tape constrains AC supply as Jakarta heat drives demand

Related articles, putin arrives in china to deepen strategic ties with xi, barcodes and printed receipts: how red tape prevented me contributing to us-ri dialogue, china military says it 'drove away' us destroyer in south china sea, philippines calls for expelling chinese diplomats as south china sea row escalates, ten killed after two malaysian navy helicopters collide in mid-air, related article, more in world.

Indonesia conveys ‘deep concern’ over Iranian President's missing helicopter

Iran's President Raisi took hard line with national protests, nuclear talks

Saudi king to be treated for lung inflammation

Iranian President Raisi feared dead as helicopter wreckage found

Search for Iran's President Raisi after helicopter goes missing

Industry Ministry to ease local content rule on renewable projects

Metals zoom as investors wait on rates, indonesians wooed by south korean opera ‘the wedding day’, blinken congratulates taiwan's lai on inauguration as president, jokowi, ma’ruf not invited to pdi-p national meeting.

• Jakpost Guide To
• Art & Culture
• Today's Paper
• Southeast Asia
• Cyber Media Guidelines
• Paper Subscription
• Privacy Policy
• Discussion Guideline
• Term of Use

© 2016 - 2024 PT. Bina Media Tenggara

Your Opinion Matters

Share your experiences, suggestions, and any issues you've encountered on The Jakarta Post. We're here to listen.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts. We appreciate your feedback.

• Entertainment
• Advertise with us

Iran’s president Raisi confirmed dead in helicopter crash

Police kill 2 suspected bandits, recover 2 ak-47 rifles in kaduna, mpc likely to increase lending rate by another 100 basis points — expert, manchester city claim record 4th straight epl title.

The Chinese Navy Escort Task Group, ETG 162, comprising MSL Destroyer NANNING, MSL Frigate SANYA, and Supply Ship WEISHANHU, on Sunday visited Nigeria to strengthen bilateral relationship between the two countries.

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Chi Jian Chun, said that the visitation of the Chinese envoy, scheduled for July 2 to 6, would also enhance maritime security within West Africa.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that MSL Destroyer NANNING, made the port call at Nigerian Port Authority, NPA Berth 21, while the other two ships remained at anchorage.

Mr Chun said that the delegation from China was big with more than 700 people and three ships to Nigeria.

“The visit is to further deepen the relationship the two countries have with one another and also seek to strengthen and improve our relationship and cooperation with each other.

“This visit demonstrates the harmony and symphony between Nigeria and China,” he said.

The ambassador said that China and Nigeria would continue to work together and promote peace and harmony while also seeking ways to make contributions to the international community.

“I believe that this visit will deepen the cooperation between both countries military sector so that we can work together to overcome obstacles.

“We will continue to do more things to facilitate and promote the relationship between the two countries,” Mr Chun said.

Also, the Flag Officer Commanding, FOC Western Naval Command, Rear Adm. Joseph Akpan, said the visitation would further help to cement the relationship between the two countries.

This is “especially between the Nigerian Navy and the Chinese Navy as well as the military. This will help us fight crimes, especially in the Gulf of Guinea.

“During their period of stay, our men will be interacting, we will be having some sporting activities, exchange of momentous and gifts.

“We will also discuss the future of both navies, especially on how we can benefit from each other,” Mr Akpan said.

The FOC added that the term called ‘sea riders’ enabled some of the Nigerian Navy personnel onboard the Chinese ship and they could also have some of their own men onboard our ship.

“This helps to foster friendship across the horizon,” Akpan said.

NAN reports that the Chinese people resident in Lagos came out in their numbers to welcome the Chinese envoy at the NPA.

There was also a rich display of the culture of the Chinese people which could be seen in the colourful display of their synchronised dance routine at the port.

More articles

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Latest article

Tinubu appoints ajuri as special envoy on climate action.

DailyNigerian.com is among Nigeria’s leaders in online news and information delivery. Conveying fresh, factual and reliable news from our Abuja headquarters. DailyNigerian.com is a verifiable news distribution platform, from live video streaming to audio packages to searchable archives of news features and background information. Contact: [email protected]

• Anti-Corruption

Gulf of Guinea: China sends three warships to Nigeria to fight pirates

China’s warship MSL Destroyer NANNING made the port call at Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) Berth 21, while the other two ships remained at anchorage.

The Chinese Navy Escort Task Group (ETG) 162, comprising MSL Destroyer NANNING, MSL Frigate SANYA, and Supply Ship WEISHANHU, on Sunday, visited Nigeria to strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two countries.

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Chi Jian Chun, says the visitation of the Chinese envoy, scheduled for July 2 to 6 would also enhance maritime security within West Africa.

MSL Destroyer NANNING made the port call at Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) Berth 21 while the other two ships remained at anchorage.

Mr Chun said the delegation from China was big, with more than 700 people and three ships to Nigeria.

“The visit is to further deepen the relationship the two countries have with one another and also seek to strengthen and improve our relationship and cooperation with each other.

“This visit demonstrates the harmony and symphony between Nigeria and China,” he said.

The ambassador said that China and Nigeria would continue to work together and promote peace and harmony while seeking ways to contribute to the international community.

“I believe that this visit will deepen the cooperation between both countries’ military sectors so that we can work together to overcome obstacles.

“We will continue to do more things to facilitate and promote the relationship between the two countries,” Mr Chun said.

Also, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Adm. Joseph Akpan, said the visitation would further help to cement the relationship between the two countries.

This is “especially between the Nigerian Navy and the Chinese Navy, as well as the military. This will help us fight crimes, especially in the Gulf of Guinea.

“During their period of stay, our men will be interacting; we will be having some sporting activities, exchange of momentous and gifts.

“We will also discuss the future of both navies, especially how we can benefit from each other,” Mr Akpan said.

Chinese residents in Lagos came out in their numbers to welcome the Chinese envoy at the NPA.

We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.

Get every story as it breaks

More from peoples gazette.

Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku

“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”

Iranian president’s helicopter crash was unplanned: U.S. Senate Leader

The New York politician said preliminary American intelligence findings suggested no evidence of foul play as of Sunday evening.

NDDC inaugurates nine-kilometre Obehie-Okeikpe road in Abia

“Akwa Ibom is predominantly agrarian, so the road means so much to the socio-economic activities of my people.”

31 jailed for abuse of naira, illegal currency trading in Kano in three months: EFCC

The anti-graft agency disclosed this in a statement shared on its official X handle on Sunday.

Forex broker arraigned for alleged N112 million fraud in Enugu

He was arraigned on a one-count charge bordering on criminal conversion and stealing.

NPHCDA delivers essential drugs to NAHCON for Hajj pilgrims

He said that the drugs would help in providing timely medical assistance to pilgrims throughout the journey.

Ganduje, Sani, other APC North-West stakeholders brainstorm on challenges, plan for 2027

My Ganduje urged party members to rally behind Mr Tinubv’s visionary leadership.

• In an era of fake news and overcrowded media marketplace, the journalists at Peoples Gazette aim to provide quality and practical information to help our readers stay ahead and better understand events around them. We focus on being the balanced source of true, stimulating and independent journalism.
• The Peoples Gazette Ltd, Plot 1095, Umar Shuaibu Avenue, Utako, Abuja.
• +234 805 888 8330.

Quick Links

• Comment Policy
• Editorial Code of Conduct
• Share Your Tips
• Advert Rates

© 2024 Peoples Gazette™ Limited.

• Port Harcourt
• Agriculture

• Monday, 20th May, 2024
• Rest of the World
• Health & Wellbeing
• Life & Style

No Sign of Life’ at Crash Site of Helicopter Carrying Iranian President 30 mins ago

Legal framework will prevent governors from abusing state police, says senate leader 1 hour ago, iranian president, foreign minister, others missing after helicopter’s ‘hard landing’ in mountainous terrain 1 hour ago, mele kyari blames oil output decline on underinvestment, theft, pipeline constraints 1 hour ago, latest headlines.

No Sign of Life’ at Crash Site of Helicopter Carrying Iranian President

Legal Framework Will Prevent Governors from Abusing State Police, Says Senate Leader

Iranian president, foreign minister, others missing after helicopter’s ‘hard landing’ in mountainous terrain.

Mele Kyari Blames Oil Output Decline on Underinvestment, Theft, Pipeline Constraints

Three chinese navy warships visit nigeria, pledge enhanced maritime security .

Chiemelie Ezeobi

To strengthen its bilateral relationship with Nigeria as well as enhance maritime security within West Africa, Chinese Navy Escort Task Group (ETG) 162, comprising MSL Destroyer NANNING, MSL Frigate SANYA, and Supply Ship WEISHANHU, made a port call on Sunday to Lagos. 

While China’s warship MSL Destroyer NANNING made the port call at Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) Berth 21,  the other two ships remained at anchorage.

According to the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Chi Jian Chun, the port call, which would also enhance maritime security in West Africa, was ahead of the visit of the Chinese envoy, which is scheduled for July 2 to 6, 2023.

Chun said the delegation from China was big, with more than 700 people and three ships to Nigeria.

He said: “The visit is to further deepen the relationship the two countries have with one another and also seek to strengthen and improve our relationship and cooperation with each other.

“This visit demonstrates the harmony and symphony between Nigeria and China.”

The ambassador said China and Nigeria would continue to work together and promote peace and harmony while seeking ways to contribute to the international community.

“I believe that this visit will deepen the cooperation between both countries’ military sectors so that we can work together to overcome obstacles.

“We will continue to do more things to facilitate and promote the relationship between the two countries,” he added. 

In his response, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Joseph Akpan, said the visitation would further help to cement the relationship between the two countries.

“This is especially between the Nigerian Navy and the Chinese Navy, as well as the military. This will help us fight crimes, especially in the Gulf of Guinea.

“During their period of stay, our men will be interacting; we will be having some sporting activities, exchange of momentous and gifts.

“We will also discuss the future of both navies, especially how we can benefit from each other.”

At the NPA jetty, Chinese residents in Lagos also came out in their numbers to welcome the Chinese envoy while the crew is expected to kick off series of activities to commemorate their visit. 

Related Articles

Founded on January 22, 1995, THISDAY is published by THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LTD., 35 Creek Road Apapa, Lagos, Nigeria with offices in 36 states of Nigeria , the Federal Capital Territory and around the world. It is Nigeria’s most authoritative news media available on all platforms for the political, business, professional and diplomatic elite and broader middle classes while serving as the meeting point of new ideas, culture and technology for the aspirationals and millennials. The newspaper is a public trust dedicated to the pursuit of truth and reason covering a range of issues from breaking news to politics, business, the markets, the arts, sports and community to the crossroads of people and society.

Helpful Links

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

You can email us at: [email protected] or visit our contact us page.

CHINA – Chinese Navy “Friendly Visit” to Nigeria

Three Chinese navy ships stopped Sunday for five days in the waters of Lagos, the economic capital of Nigeria, during a rare visit to the Gulf of Guinea, it was learned on Monday from the Nigerian and Chinese authorities.

“This is a friendly visit” to “improve diplomacy” between China and Nigeria, Nigerian navy spokesman Rear Admiral Ayo-Vaughan told AFP on Monday.

One of the ships docked on Sunday in the port of Apapa de Lagos, where a ceremony was held. The Chinese ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun, said that this “visit was a major event in recent years”. This event ‘demonstrates a high level of trust’ between the two countries, which will ‘strengthen’ the links between the two navies, especially in terms of ‘joint resolution of regional security issues,’ he added, quoted in a statement published on the embassy’s website.

The Gulf of Guinea, which stretches over 5,700 kilometres between Senegal and Angola, is a crucial maritime route bordering countries rich in hydrocarbons and has been the new black mark of global piracy for several years, even though piracy has recently taken its toll. China has very close economic and financial ties with Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa. It has invested heavily in infrastructure, such as the new deep-water port of Lekki, on the outskirts of Lagos.

In terms of security cooperation, Nigeria, in the grip of a serious insecurity between piracy and jihadi conflict in the northeast, is mainly turned towards the United States, one of its main suppliers of military equipment. Last year, American defence officials expressed concern about China’s plans for a military base on the Atlantic coast of West Africa.

HEAT WAVE – Very deadly summer 2022 in Europe

THIRD MANDATE – UN welcomes Macky Sall’s decision as a “very important example for his country”

Vous aimeriez aussi

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

INDIA – A new and even more worrisome variant of Covid-19

India has lost control of the virus. Covid-19 is beginning to rise to alarming proportions with a new variant. Over the past seven days, 250,000 infections have been recorded every day in the country. The day of Wednesday, April 21, 2021 broke the records of daily infections since 300,000 positive cases were counted. This remarkable spike in the number of cases in the country could be due to the new “Indian variant”.

India is now going through difficult times with this health crisis that is difficult to control. After several months of calm, the country is experiencing a worrying daily contamination rate. The appearance of a new variant called B.1.617 could be the cause. First detected in October 2020 in Nagpur, central India, it is described by medical experts as a “double mutant”. Patrick Berche, microbiologist and member of the Academy of Medicine, explains that the complexity of this variant is that it is the junction of several other variants already detected in Brazil, South Africa or the United States. According to him it is a mutant that has mutations that are found in a Californian variant, on the one hand, and another mutation on the same variant that is found in the Brazilian and south-African and would be more contagious and less accessible to vaccine protection. 

Still according to him, the “Indian variant” would be more virulent and even more contagious. It is responsible for more than 55% of cases of contamination in the state of Maharashtra, in central-western India. In the rest of the country, it is the cause of 10% of Covid-19 positive cases. What is special about this virus is that it quickly reaches young people with a higher risk of lethality. This is what explains the anxiety of Indian doctors especially since so far, no study allows to master the contours of this variant.  

The French doctor always specifies that vaccination campaigns must be accelerated because if the virus continues to circulate, there will inevitably be variants. The other major difficulty is that when studying the characteristics of one variant, another one appears with its specificities. “ What is very disturbing is that the faster the virus multiplies, the more likely it is that mutants will appear. We will not control this pandemic if we do not vaccinate third world countries that cannot afford the vaccines. We really need a global vision, a global vision to fight this virus. There will always be the possibility of a variant coming by plane, for example, seeding Europe or the United States, ‘ adds Patrick Berchel.

It should be noted that beyond the Indian territory, the new variant named B.1.617 is also present in England, Germany, Canada and Singapore, according to information from Public Health France.

BURMA: Calls for civil disobedience multiply on social networks

Two days after the coup d’état in Burma, calls for disobedience are multiplying on social networks, especially on Facebook. People are showing the first signs of resistance and are calling for the restoration of the rule of law.

On Monday, the military seized power in Burma. They then declared a state of emergency for one year and placed Aung San Suu Kyi and President Win Myint under house arrest. But already, the first signs of resistance are showing in the population even if the fear of reprisals remains strong in the country. The population received the order to knock on pots, every evening at 8 pm, on the balconies and the front of houses in protest against the presence of the army.

A group called «the civil disobedience movement» was launched on Facebook and had nearly 150,000 followers on Wednesday morning. “Shame on the army,” “the military are thieves,” it says. Doctors and health professionals have announced that they will refuse any work, except in the event of a medical emergency. “We will obey only our democratically elected government,” they wrote in a joint statement. Members of the medical staff of the Yangon General Hospital also gathered in front of the institution, saluting with three fingers, a gesture of resistance already adopted by pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong or Thailand.

The UN Security Council met urgently behind closed doors on Tuesday, but failed to agree on a common text. To be adopted, this joint declaration requires the support of China, which exercises a veto as a permanent member of the Security Council. However, Beijing remains Burma’s main support to the United Nations. Negotiations are ongoing, according to a diplomat who requested anonymity.

BURMA: Army seizes power, Aung San Suu Kyi arrested

The Burmese army carried out a coup early Monday and declared a state of emergency for a year and placed its generals in key posts. The head of the civilian government, Aung San Suu Kyi, was arrested, along with the President of the Republic, Win Myint.

The army seized power in Burma on Monday, February 1, 2021. It arrested Aung San Suu Kyi and the President of the Republic, Win Myint, and declared a state of emergency for one year . “We heard that they were being held in Naypyidaw,” the country’s capital, said NLD spokesman Myo Nyunt, who believes several other officials were also arrested. The army then seized the town hall of Yangon, the economic capital of the country, and access to its international airport was blocked by the military.

In a letter circulated on social networks by his party, Aung San Suu Kyi declares that “the army is putting the country back under military dictatorship” and calls on the population to “not accept” this military putsh.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was quick to respond. He “strongly condemned” the arrest of Aung San Suu Kyi. With “the declaration of the transfer of all legislative, executive and judicial powers to the military”, “these developments are a blow to democratic reforms in Burma”, he lamented.

The President of the European Council, Charles Michel, also condemned in a tweet the putsh and called for the release of the detainees. “I strongly condemn the coup d’état in Burma and call on the military to release all those who were illegally detained in raids across the country. The outcome of the elections must be respected and the democratic process must be restored, ”h e wrote.

A shower of condemnations followed this coup. France, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Japan, among others, strongly condemned a blow to democracy and called for the release of the arrested political authorities. Russia is not yet ready to comment on the current state of affairs, saying it is too early to make an assessment.

Other countries like Thailand, Cambodia and the Philippines have been careful not to interfere in Burma’s internal affairs.

Others like Bangladesh instead call on both sides to preserve peace and stability in the country.

The party of Aung San Suu Kyi, Nobel Peace Prize winner in 1991, much criticized internationally for its handling of the Rohingya Muslim crisis but still adored by a majority of the population, won a landslide victory in November. It was the second general election since 2011, when the junta that ruled the country for half a century was dissolved. Elections contested by the Burmese army, which had promised to restore democracy in the country.

DERNIERS ARTICLES

TANZANIA – President meets with Chairman of the Board and CEO of the Merck Foundation

POLITICS – [INTERVIEW EXCLUSIVE] – MADAGASCAR – Fanirisoa Ernaivo, a politician and activist committed to the rule of law and respect for democracy

GUINEA – Authorities demand repatriation of mining revenues

SENEGAL – Presidential election 2024: Registration of 79 candidates declared

AFRICA – African writers and artists celebrate the 20th anniversary of the African Union

SOUTH AFRICA – Former President Jacob Zuma in prison

AFRICA – Migrant smuggling brings 59 billion CFA francs to smugglers per year

GUINÉE: Manchester United: Paul Pogba absent several weeks

• French Version

• Publications
• Diplomatic Suite
• Culture & Lifestyle
• FOCAC Focus
• Photo Gallery
• Send Us an E-mail

Nigeria and China 50 landmark years of diplomacy

By IKENNA EMEWU

February 10, 2021 would be 50 years Nigeria and China acceded to diplomatic alliance.

The bilateral treaty has made much progress in the past half century that need to be celebrated as that grand alliance has yielded local and international benefits to the two worlds.

Before occupying the global stage, China had played a central role in keeping together and in progress the Asian countries. That is akin to the role Nigeria played for years and still plays in Africa.

In Asia, China is the largest country, just like Nigeria in Africa and with the largest markets due to their largest populations. It is no surprise that the two countries have maintained a virile relationship in the five decades in so many ways.

The relationship though with major landmarks over the years peaked since the early 2000 when the Chinese President Jiang Zemin made history as the first Chinese leader to visit Nigeria in April 2002. But his successor, President Hu Jintao did a double in 2004 and 2006. During his 2006 visit, on April 27, Hu also became the first Chinese president to address the Nigerian National Assembly.

These visits were however in reciprocation of the tradition of Nigerian leaders’ visits to China starting on September 10, 1974 when General Yakubu Gowon was the first Nigerian leader to visit China.

Ten years after, Gen Ibrahim Babangida was in China as Nigeria representative to attend the 35 years anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. But since Nigeria returned to democracy in 1999, all Nigerian presidents have visited China due to the rising importance of the friendship of the two countries in both global affairs and in the continent wide Forum on China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC)

The visits by the leaders have however been the spicing of the larger and deeper relationship over the years beyond politics and diplomacy to culture, technology, manpower development, military cooperation and many more.

In 2020 at an interview with the Africa China Economy Magazine, the Chinese Consul General in Lagos, Mr. Chu Maoming said there are over 120 top grade Chinese companies doing business in Nigeria from engineering, construction, manufacturing and partnerships with Nigerian private sector business players. Aside these, there are thousands of Chinese citizens in some other businesses.

In the same vein, trade between Nigeria and China has expanded over the years that China has been Nigeria’s largest trading partner in machinery and consumer goods in the past 11 years.

At the Chinese New Year celebration in Abuja in January 2019, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Zhou Pingjian told Nigerian media that beyond just the expansion of trade volume, the nature had started to change with Nigerian goods to China increased by 70 percent with higher percentage of finished products. Although the bulk of the goods China buys in Nigeria are raw materials as confirmed to me at the Nansha Port in Guangzhou in 2016 that 30 percent of goods China imports from Africa come from the Lagos ports and mainly timber, many Chinese investors have also made inroads in manufacturing in Nigeria.

In the past three years, there have been over 10 proposed industrial parks in states of Nigeria and all in alliance with Chinese investors. These are in addition to already existing ones like the Ogun-Guangdong Free Trade Zone in Ogun State, the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Lagos that houses the world largest refinery in the making owned by Aliko Dangote with Chinese partners. The facility has a Sinotruk assembly plant, a seaport, fertilizer factory, all valued in billions of dollars.

At the eastern flank, Chinese investors have partnerships with Innoson Motors in Anambra and the ANAMMCO in Enugu to manufacture automobiles. In early 2019, the Lagos State government signed a deal with the Guangzhou Automobile Company (GAC) to assemble cars in Lagos.

Chinese investors’ partnerships are also very prominent in Cross River State, Akwa Ibom, Enugu, Edo, Delta, Ebonyi, Kaduna, Kano and some others in alliances with the state governments.

I recall at a private meeting with the former Chinese Ambassador, Zhou where he challenged Nigeria to work towards more industrialization as that was the only way its trade with China would be more favourable. He advocated what he called made-in-Nigeria-with-China industrial plan, stating the willingness of China for larger partnership with Nigeria towards that.

The expanding trade in Chinese goods by Nigerian businesspeople prompted a currency swap deal between the Central Bank of Nigeria and the People’s Bank of China in 2018. The arrangement became important and necessary as the CBN revealed that about 40 percent of foreign exchange requests by Nigerians for international business are by those that do business in China. CBN reasoned that it would make business easier if such swap is in place to save the Nigerians the trouble of circuitous transactions of exchanging the naira for the US dollars and later the Chinese Yuan. The swap made it possible for Nigerians to apply to the CBN directly for the Chinese Yuan.

That was however a follow up to an earlier deal where the government of Nigeria in 2014 ordered that 4 percent of Nigeria’s foreign reserve be domiciled in the Chinese Yuan

Outside business, on October 1, 2020 a day that that is coincidentally Nigeria and Chinese National Day, Chinese Charge D’Affairs and head of the Embassy held a celebration that honoured 49 Nigerian workers in Chinese owned companies whom he said had made huge contributions to the sustenance of the economic friendship between the two countries over the years.

In the construction industry the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) has been dominant in the provision of transport infrastructure including railways, airports, seaports, roads, bridges since 1981. The company successfully completed the Abuja Integrated Transport system projects that included the Abuja metro light rail, expansion of the Abuja International Airport and the Abuja-Kaduna railway. Later the Ajaokuta-Itakpe-Warri railway link was commissioned this year and the Lagos-Ibadan railway that has started operation to be commissioned early in 2021.

Other companies like the CGC, CHEC have been prominent too.

In the telecommunication sector, since Huawei signed a deal to operate in Nigeria in November 2004, it has also played a major role in the provision of telecom infrastructure in Nigeria.

In 1996 when Nigeria faced diplomatic headwinds during the military era, as the US rallied the world for full sanctions and diplomatic isolation of Nigeria, it was China that aligned with some European countries to the aid of Nigeria and staved off a global freeze of Nigerian assets.

When again the US and European countries were hesitant to support Nigeria for a decisive action in combating violence in the Niger Delta region preferring to safeguard their investments there that explored oil with no regard for human and environmental rights, Nigeria turned to China for military assistance that helped procure arms and equipment.

Similar development repeated in the north east Nigeria against Boko Haram terrorists when China again agreed to supply military hardware to prosecute the war against the terrorists.

The two countries also signed a US$311m agreement for cooperation in  communications  and  space programs that helped develop and launch the Nigerian  communications satellite  ( NigComSat-1 ) by 2007 to expand  cellular  and internet networks in  Nigeria .

These efforts were reciprocated by Nigeria in 2017 when she ordered the closure of a Taiwanese diplomatic office in Abuja and formally recognized the One China policy.

Aside the government and investment circles, the people-to-people relationship of the two countries has been wonderful. A BBC survey in 2014 reported that Nigeria is number one pro-China country in the world with 80 percent positive approval rating, 10 percent negative and 10 percent neutral rating.

Recently, the CCECC assisted in setting up a railway engineering department at the University of Abuja to encourage human capital development in the country and reduce dependence.

Among about 60,000 Africans studying in China and mostly on scholarship, Nigeria has the largest of about 6,000 scholars, a positive sign of helping the country develop human resource base.

Although the two countries have good landmarks to celebrate for the past 50 years, in the years ahead, more needs to be done. For instance, after Nigeria signed to the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) memberships, Nigeria needs to leverage more on China’s growing global economic influence. Here is the largest market on the continent and needs to take a central position in Chinese investments in Africa. This is a challenge to Nigeria to show more interest in China diplomacy such as the hosting of the secretariat of the FOCAC.

On China’s side, the key position of Nigeria should also be reciprocated. All Chinese media African head offices are located outside Nigeria and even the West African office of the China Africa Development Fund (CADFund) is in Ghana. China also has to do more for Nigeria by elevating her membership of the African Development Bank where Nigeria has controlling 16 percent voting right to voting right status.

That would be a spark to the good friendship of the two sides for a better tomorrow.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Experts discuss future of China-Nigeria diplomacy, Taiwan question

South Korean FM’s visit to China raises hope of better relationship

Hungarian-Chinese bilingual school, Xi’s darling project, solidifies bond in 20 years

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

EVEN MORE NEWS

Economic diplomacy: China offloads $53.3b US treasury debt

Leverkusen lifts 1st Bundesliga trophy with Nigeria’s Boniface

NNPC says normalcy restored after Lagos depot fire

Popular category.

• Economy 1023
• Business 1021
• Diplomatic Suite 764
• Politics 524
• Disaster 446