Abuja: The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has assured China that all bilateral agreements would be implemented. This assurance was given during a courtesy visit in Abuja on Thursday. Akpabio met with Hu Chunhua, Vice-Chairperson of the 14th Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), marking a key moment for reinforcing relations between Nigeria and China.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Akpabio conveyed the Nigerian National Assembly’s readiness to advance bilateral agreements and deepen parliamentary diplomacy. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust legislative framework to foster Nigeria-China relations, reflecting a commitment to a fruitful and forward-looking partnership. Akpabio acknowledged the long-standing bond between the two nations, noting its evolution over fifty years into a confident alliance. He highlighted China’s developmental journey under the Communist Party, praising its global economic growth, innovation, and poverty eradication efforts.
Akpabio expressed eagerness to learn from China’s experiences to adapt them to Nigeria’s development goals. He noted the significant presence of Chinese companies in Nigeria, highlighting their contributions to infrastructure projects like highways, railways, and ports, which he described as “the bridges of friendship and the arteries of progress.” He emphasized their role in strengthening bilateral relations.
Recalling President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Beijing, Akpabio highlighted the envisioned Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between leaders Xi Jinping and Tinubu, a decision that transcended political gestures. He welcomed closer ties between the Nigerian Parliament and the CPPCC, advocating for mutual learning and institutional cooperation to further enhance the relationship.