By: Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja
The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has called for continued collaboration with Nigeria to leverage on the strengths and resources for the benefit of both countries, in line with the vision of a community of shared future for mankind.
Ambassador Dunhi, made the call at the release ceremony of the Global Solicitation Results with the theme “Written in the Sky; My Story”. an event organized by China Media Group (CMG) to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Republic of China.
The Chinese Ambassador, who has just assumed office in Nigeria, also expressed delight to have associated with Nigeria despite just being a few weeks old in Nigeria, noting that the country has become his second home; as a result of the warm reception of Nigerians.
“Both countries, characterized by their vast populations and rich cultural legacies, will strive to carve their paths in an ever-changing global landscape under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state.
As the 15th Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, with a lofty mission on my shoulder and great excitement in my heart,I deeply felt the hospitality of the Nigerian people and their friendship with China.”
I just came from Beijing, after receiving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in China. I’m already in love with this country. I already feel Nigeria is my second home. I am so in love with this country.I am happy with this special event by the China Media Group, tagged ‘Written in the Sky: My China Story’.” He said.
Speaking on Nigeria’s President’s visit to China, the Envoy explained that China-Nigeria relations have stood at the forefront of China-Africa relations over the years.adding that the visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to China was a great success.
Also speaking, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, called for partnership with the China Media Group (CMG) to tackle the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation by leveraging on modern communication channels available in both nations.
Idris, who was represented by the Deputy Director Press, Dr. Suleiman Haruna, said the initiative by CMG represents a significant effort to strengthen cultural and linguistic exchange ties between Nigeria and China.
“The role of media outlets in guiding society is both vital and far- reaching. They promote mutual understanding, foster progress, and contribute to the advancement of societal, economic, and cultural domains. However, it is crucial to maintain balance in news reporting, when showcasing national progress and achievements. It is also essential to create content that inspires hope and drives aspirations for future growth. In today’s world, advances in technology have made it possible to deliver credible and timely news to millions of people, even across vast distances”.
The Minister of Information, further explained that while the advancements present tremendous opportunities, they also bring challenges, especially the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation. Which must be tackled by working together to eliminate it.
“In this spirit of cooperation, Nigeria and China have already made significant strides. During the recently concluded Forum of China- Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), our two nations signed many agreements to enhance our bilateral relations. Some of these agreements are on media exchange and collaboration; these directly relate to our partnership with the China Media Group.”
On his part, the Chairman House Committee on Nigeria- China Relations, Jaafaru Yakubu, said China’s investment in Nigeria and the continent of Africa at large has been instrumental in driving economic growth.
“Nigeria’s participation in the Belt and Road Initiative has already yielded tangible results, and I am confident that it will continue to be a source of growth and development for our two countries.
The event featured presentation of partnership Award certificate and Chinese Dance.