The People’s Republic of China has pledged a military grant of one billion Yuan to Africa to help address the continent’s security challenges.
This announcement was made by China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi, during a joint press conference with Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday.
Wang emphasized the importance of global solidarity in resolving security issues, stating, “China is committed to working with Africa to implement the global security initiative, fostering modernization characterized by peace and security, and building an enduring China-Africa community with a shared future.”
Key Security Initiatives
Wang outlined several measures China will undertake as part of its partnership with Africa:
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- Provision of one billion Yuan in military assistance.
- Training of 6,000 military personnel and 1,000 police and law enforcement officers from African countries.
- Continued support for the African Standby Force and rapid response units.
- Assistance in counter-terrorism and peacekeeping operations across the continent.
- Advocacy for Africa’s rights and interests, opposing power politics and external interference.
Support for Africa in Multilateral Arenas
Addressing Africa’s aspiration for representation at the United Nations, Wang pledged China’s unwavering support for the continent.
“At the United Nations Security Council, China’s vote will always go to Africa. We will continue to amplify Africa’s legitimate voice in multilateral forums,” he said.
As the second-largest contributor to global peacekeeping, Wang reaffirmed China’s commitment to UN-led peacekeeping efforts in Africa. He also highlighted China’s dedication to achieving security through development and ensuring the success of the 10 partnership actions and the 360 billion Yuan funding support announced at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit.
Wang recognized Nigeria’s critical role in Africa, describing the country as a leader in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and a stabilizing force in West Africa and the Sahel. “China supports Nigeria in uniting countries in the region to strengthen peace and security through cooperation,” he added.
Nigeria’s Commitment to Self-Reliance
Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, emphasized the country’s focus on domesticating the production of military equipment to reduce dependence on external procurement processes.
“This administration is committed to working with partners like China to produce military equipment locally, both kinetic and non-kinetic,” Tuggar said.
He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s reputation as a responsible nation, free from expansionist tendencies, and praised its leadership role in promoting regional peace and stability.
Collaboration and Regional Leadership
Tuggar noted that Nigeria has consistently demonstrated its effectiveness in addressing regional security challenges, particularly through partnerships with other nations.
“Whenever we collaborate with countries, including major global powers, we achieve greater success in tackling peace and security issues,” he stated, expressing appreciation for China’s support.
Both ministers underscored the importance of their partnership in fostering peace, security, and development across Africa, with a shared commitment to strengthening ties and advancing mutual goals.
