Nigeria Seeks China’s Backing For UN Security Council Position

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Abbas Tajudeen, has called on China to support the country’s campaign for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.

Speaking during talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Shanghai, Dr Abbas said the move was part of President Bola Tinubu’s effort to secure Nigeria’s place among key global decision-makers.

He told Mr Li that Nigeria’s growing influence in Africa and the world made the case for inclusion stronger, saying such a move would “benefit not only Nigeria and China but the entire world.”

The Speaker, who is in China for the China International Import Expo, said the parliament was pursuing reforms to make Nigeria a more predictable and transparent investment destination.

He also proposed creating a Nigeria-China Legislative Cooperation Framework to promote regular dialogue on governance and innovation.

Dr Abbas outlined three areas for deeper ties in technology, green industry, and human capital development.

He said Nigeria wanted to collaborate with China on artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and digital security, citing the Zungeru Hydropower Project as an example of successful cooperation.

He added that talks were ongoing with a major Chinese firm to revive the long-dormant Ajaokuta Steel Company.

Premier Li said relations between China and Nigeria were on a “fast track,” adding that Beijing was ready to strengthen cooperation in trade, agriculture, mining, and infrastructure.

He also expressed China’s willingness to work closely with Nigeria in multilateral settings, including the UN and BRICS.

PR Oduyemi Odumade