Nigeria’s flood relief efforts have received a major boost following a $1 million donation from the Government of China to assist victims across flood-affected northern states.
The grant was formalised on Wednesday during a signing ceremony in Abuja between the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, and the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Yu Dunhai.
Senator Bagudu welcomed the support, describing it as “a timely boost” to national interventions focused on rebuilding devastated communities and providing urgent assistance to displaced families.
“We firmly believe that today’s signing ceremony will open new avenues for collaboration, strengthening our strategic partnership for the mutual benefit of our peoples,” the minister said.
In a statement, Ambassador Yu Dunhai conveyed solidarity with Nigeria, recalling that both countries had suffered devastating floods around the same time.
“We would like to express our deepest condolences to those who lost their lives and also convey our support. In times of difficulty, China and Nigeria always stand together,” the envoy said.
He further underscored the broader ties between the two nations, noting that Chinese President Xi Jinping had recently approved zero-tariff treatment on 400 per cent of tariff lines for African countries maintaining diplomatic relations with China, including Nigeria.
According to him, this policy is expected to enhance Nigeria’s export potential, stimulate job creation, and drive economic growth.
The $1 million humanitarian package will specifically benefit flood-ravaged communities in Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Borno, Taraba, and Adamawa States. It will complement Federal Government interventions aimed at restoring livelihoods, rebuilding essential infrastructure, and supplying critical relief materials to victims.
