Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to the One-China principle, with a senior lawmaker urging political actors and public officials to avoid statements or actions that could undermine the country’s long-standing diplomatic position on Taiwan.
Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on China–Nigeria Parliamentary Relations, restated Nigeria’s stance during a recent engagement, describing it as “clear, consistent, and firmly rooted in international law and bilateral agreements” with the People’s Republic of China.
Yakubu emphasised that Nigeria has recognised Beijing as the sole legitimate government of China since 1971, maintaining that Taiwan remains part of China’s territory under the One-China framework.
He cautioned that any expression of support for Taiwan’s independence, whether official or informal, could be interpreted as a departure from Nigeria’s established foreign policy direction and potentially affect diplomatic relations between Abuja and Beijing.
“Nigeria opposes any form of ‘Taiwan Independence’ or interference in the internal affairs of China,” he stated, adding that the country continues to support efforts aimed at national reunification as pursued by the Chinese government.
The lawmaker also highlighted the strength of Nigeria–China economic relations, noting that bilateral trade surpassed $28 billion in 2025. He attributed the growth to increased Chinese exports of machinery, electronics, and industrial equipment, which continue to play a role in Nigeria’s infrastructure and development projects.
Yakubu further described China as a key strategic partner in areas such as investment, technology transfer, infrastructure development, and human capacity building, stressing the importance of maintaining stable diplomatic relations.
He urged members of the National Assembly and other public officials to remain mindful of Nigeria’s foreign policy commitments in their engagements, warning that inconsistent messaging could weaken international credibility.
The House Committee on China–Nigeria Relations, he added, remains committed to strengthening parliamentary cooperation and supporting the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between both countries.
Yakubu concluded by calling for sustained public and institutional support for policies that reinforce Nigeria’s diplomatic interests and long-term cooperation with China.