The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has announced plans to build Africa’s first local insulin production facility in Nigeria.

This project aims to transform blood glucose level management, prevent diabetes-related complications, and end the country’s reliance on imported insulin.

Speaking at a reception marking the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China in Abuja, Yu disclosed that Chinese companies are in talks with Nigeria to establish the facility.

“This project is part of the tangible benefits of China-Nigeria cooperation, alongside the recently completed Abuja Water Supply Project, with a daily capacity of 480 cubic meters, which now provides clean water to nearly three million people,” he said.

Yu highlighted China’s long-standing support for Africa’s development, fostering a cooperation model that is equal, pragmatic, and efficient.

The ambassador also reflected on the shared national memory between China and Nigeria, both celebrating their national days on October 1.

“Both China’s National Day and Nigeria’s Independence Day fall on the same day, October 1st. It is a shared national memory that binds our two peoples together,” he said.

Yu celebrated individual stories of friendship and collaboration, including Ms. Issah Fatimah Abiola, the first Nigerian female train driver trained by CCECC, who was honored with China’s “Friendship Envoy Award”.

“Her story inspires many Nigerian women to strive for self-reliance, becoming a shining symbol of China-Nigeria friendship,” he said.

He also praised a young boy from Kano, Ibrahim Ismail, who is fluent in Mandarin Chinese. Yu lauded Nigeria’s decision to add Chinese language to the new senior secondary school curriculum, saying it will serve as an important bridge for deepening China-Nigeria friendship.

Senator Barau Jibrin, Deputy President of the Senate, conveyed greetings from President Bola Tinubu to China and praised their transformation journey and contribution to strengthening relationships between the two countries. Jibrin emphasized Nigeria’s resolve to strengthen cooperation with China in critical sectors, stating that the partnership has blossomed into a comprehensive strategic partnership with tangible outcomes in various areas.