China has announced plans to establish Africa’s first local insulin production facility in Nigeria, a project expected to end the country’s reliance on imported insulin and position it as a hub for medical biotechnology on the continent.

The move, announced by Yu Dunhai, China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, comes as both nations deepen economic cooperation through major infrastructure, health, and education partnerships.

Dunhai also reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Nigeria, describing bilateral ties as a growing “comprehensive strategic partnership” that is expanding across political, economic, and cultural spheres.

Dunhai made the remarks on Wednesday night at a reception in Abuja to celebrate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

He said the year 2025 was a “pivotal moment” for China’s development, China–Africa relations, and global diplomacy.

The envoy highlighted China’s Global Governance Initiative (GGI) as a framework for shared progress, noting that Nigeria’s recent endorsement of the policy underscores Abuja’s growing influence on the world stage.

“Days ago, the Nigerian government issued a statement to endorse the Initiative. China deeply appreciates this support and backs Nigeria’s greater role internationally,” he said.

Dunhai also reflected on China’s domestic achievements, praising its transformation over seven decades as “miraculous.”

He pointed out that China had lifted over 800 million people out of poverty, achieved a GDP of more than $18 trillion in 2024, and consistently contributed over 30 percent to global economic growth.

The ambassador said China’s modernization drive would emphasize peace, development, and mutual benefit, adding: “We are eager to share development opportunities with African countries, including Nigeria.”

Underscoring outcomes of China–Nigeria cooperation, Dunhai cited the Lekki Deep Sea Port and the Abuja Water Supply Project.

He described Lekki Port as a new “national gateway” projected to generate $360 billion in economic benefits and create 170,000 jobs over the next 45 years.

On water infrastructure, he noted that the Abuja Water Supply Project, completed in June 2025, now provides clean water for nearly 3 million residents of the capital city.

The ambassador also disclosed ongoing talks with Nigerian authorities to establish Africa’s first local insulin production facility.

“This project could end Nigeria’s reliance on imported insulin and position the country as a hub for African medical biotechnology,” he said.

Dunhai emphasized cultural and educational exchanges, citing the recognition of Nigeria’s first female train driver, Issah Abiola, known in China as Bai Yang, who was recently honoured with China’s prestigious Friendship Envoy Award.

He also welcomed the Federal Government’s move to include Mandarin Chinese in the national senior secondary school curriculum, saying the initiative would foster deeper understanding between both peoples.

“China stands ready to deepen cooperation with Nigeria across various sectors,” he stressed.

He further pledged to align Beijing’s policies with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.

Barau Jibrin, Deputy Senate President represented by Babangida Hussaini (Senator) echoed the ambassador’s sentiments, noting that Nigeria and China share a symbolic bond in celebrating their national days on October 1st.

He said the relationship has matured into a comprehensive strategic partnership, reflected in Chinese-backed projects in roads, railways, power plants, and industrial parks across Nigeria.

“Chinese enterprises and investments are visible in every corner of Nigeria, contributing to the modernization of our infrastructure,” he said.

Jibrin also praised President Tinubu’s 2024 state visit to Beijing as a turning point in bilateral relations.

He expressed optimism about future collaborations under Nigeria’s 10-Year Development Plan and China’s Belt and Road Initiative, describing them as “opening new opportunities for growth, connectivity, and shared prosperity.”

On people-to-people relations, Jibrin highlighted the thousands of young Nigerians currently studying in China, alongside the growing visibility of Nigerian culture in Chinese society.

He assured that the National Assembly would continue to promote parliamentary diplomacy as part of efforts to strengthen ties.