The Chinese government has emphasized the critical role of the media in fostering China-Nigeria cooperation. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Seminar for Media Practitioners in Beijing, China, Mr. Li Hengtian, Deputy Director of the Education and Training Centre of China International Communications Group (CICG), described news media and commentators as the stone arches that build the bridge of understanding and the clear breeze that dispels the mist of prejudice.
While acknowledging the great achievements in bilateral relations since their inception, Hengtian noted that the people of both countries still desire deeper mutual understanding. He urged the media to engage in effective communication that breaks down barriers of single narratives.
Referencing renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Hengtian described stories as the highest form of human communication, capable of accurately telling China's stories and writing a new chapter of China-Nigeria friendship.
Economically, he highlighted Nigeria as China's largest engineering contracting market in Africa, second-largest export market, third-largest trading partner, and a major investment destination. He cited projects such as the Lagos Light Rail, Abuja Rail Mass Transit, Lekki Deep Sea Port, and Zungeru Hydropower Station as monuments of China-Africa cooperation rising across the continent.
In the grand narrative of the Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), China-Nigeria cooperation has always been a highlight. Hengtian noted that more Nigerian youths are traveling east to pursue knowledge in Chinese institutions, while more Chinese builders are heading west to Nigeria to sow seeds of development. This year, both countries are working together to build a China-Nigeria community with a shared future.
Hengtian expressed optimism that Chinese and Nigerian media can strengthen cooperation and tell stories of friendly cooperation and common development with diverse perspectives and sincere writing. He hoped the seminar would open a window for greater understanding, mutual tolerance, trust, and support between the two countries.
The Institute of International Studies and Advanced Training is affiliated with CICG, which was founded in 1949. CICG is a comprehensive professional international communication agency dedicated to telling China's stories well and showcasing its long history, culture, contemporary outlook, and reform achievements to the international community through various languages and media. Its business covers six major sectors: high-end international communication, publishing and distribution, media communication, research and consulting, cultural exchange, and industry services. Annually, it publishes over 4,000 types of books in more than 40 languages and edits 36 multi-language periodicals in 14 languages. The book 'Xi Jinping: The Governance of China', compiled and printed by CICG, has been published in five volumes and 42 languages, with distribution covering over 180 countries and regions.
Over 20 journalists and media aides from Nigeria are participating in the seminar.
