China President Jinping commits to completion of rail projects in Nigeria

President of Peoples Republic of China, Xi Jinping, has pledged to refinancing and completing the Abuja-Kano and Port- Harcourt-Maiduguri railway projects.

The Presidency said this was a major milestone for Nigeria at the ongoing Belt and Road Initiative Forum (BRI) in Beijing, China

The Chinese leader said this while responding to requests made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who, was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, at a bilateral meeting with the Chinese leader in Beijing.

Since the launch of the projects, China is yet to release funds for the two major railway projects in Nigeria largely due to cutbacks and other commitments after China had agreed to provide 85 per cent financing for the construction of the Abuja-Kano and Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri railway projects, even after Nigeria had payed the balance of 15 percent of the funding from inception of the project through appropriations.

President Jinping promised that China will enhance political support and build cooperation in all fields, and he appreciated Nigeria’s support of one China Policy, he also Pledged to further deepen practical cooperation.

He Commended the Renewed Hope Manifesto of President Bola Tinubu and his 8-point economic agenda adding that China will support Nigeria’s exports.

In the area of security, President Jinping promised continued crackdown on terrorists, assuring that China is committed to peace in the Sahel region, more so that its long-standing military trainings and MoUs on joint exercises remain sacrosanct.

Vice President Shettima who delivered the well-wishes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described the rail projects as very vital to the President and people of Nigeria, saying it remained a legacy project that would further open up the nation’s economy, create jobs and boost trade and investments across the country.

The vice President said President Tinubu remains committed to a stronger Nigeria – China tie, addng that it was laddened with respect, non-political interference and mutual international cooperations.