Stakeholders have called for deeper people-to-people engagement between Nigeria and China, identifying skills development, technology transfer, innovation and cultural exchange as critical drivers of future bilateral cooperation.
The call was made during the China-Nigeria Youth Exchange Seminar in Abuja, where youth leaders, diplomats, government officials, and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members explored pathways to strengthen relations between the two countries through youth-focused initiatives.
At the event, minister counsellor Zhou Hongyou of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, said the seminar aimed to create a platform for young people from both countries to exchange ideas, build friendships, and contribute to a stronger China-Nigeria partnership.
He noted that the engagement coincides with the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China, as both nations continue to deepen cooperation under their comprehensive strategic partnership.
According to Zhou, China remains committed to expanding collaboration with African countries in trade, education, technology, culture and youth development.
“As China opens up further to the world, Africa always comes first. We are ready to walk side by side with Nigeria and other African countries towards modernization and a shared future,” he said. He urged young people to become ambassadors of mutual understanding and cooperation, stressing that their creativity and energy are essential to translating bilateral agreements into practical outcomes.
Also, the director of Education and Youth Development at the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Despan Kwardem, described the seminar as a strategic platform for fostering structured engagement between Nigerian and Chinese youths.
Kwardem said both countries possess a demographic advantage, with large populations of digitally connected and innovative young people capable of driving economic growth and technological advancement.
“The future of Nigeria-China relations will increasingly be shaped by young people. This engagement provides opportunities for technology exchange, innovation partnerships and skills development that can benefit both countries,” he said.
The embassy disclosed that Chinese companies operating in Nigeria currently provide internship and training opportunities for Nigerian youths, including members of the NYSC, while over 1,000 Nigerians participate annually in short-term training programmes in China across key development sectors.
To further strengthen cultural ties, the embassy announced plans to host a China-Nigeria Fashion Show, Food Festival and Film Festival later this year. Officials said Nigerian fashion designers have already benefited from exchange opportunities, including participation in fashion exhibitions in Beijing, opening new channels for cultural promotion and market access.
After the event, NYSC member Orifha Joan, described the seminar as an eye-opening engagement and a broader understanding of Nigeria-China relations beyond infrastructure projects. She urged greater investment in grassroots initiatives and youth-focused platforms capable of empowering young people to contribute meaningfully to national development.
