The Federal Government’s relief efforts for flood-affected communities in the northern region have received a major boost, following the donation of $1 million (about ₦1.5 billion) by the Government of China.
The signing ceremony for the financial support took place on Wednesday in Abuja, where the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, exchanged notes with the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai.
Senator Bagudu expressed Nigeria’s appreciation for the gesture, describing it as a demonstration of the deepening strategic cooperation between both countries across multiple sectors, including trade, infrastructure, technology, agriculture, and now disaster management.
“This timely intervention will strengthen our national relief efforts, complementing ongoing government programmes to deliver succour and restore livelihoods in severely impacted areas,” the minister stated.
He assured that the grant would be deployed through a transparent framework to ensure accountability and efficiency, while also welcoming the joint monitoring and evaluation mechanism agreed with the Chinese Embassy.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Yu Dunhai said the donation reflected China’s solidarity with Nigeria during its time of need, noting that both countries had recently suffered devastating floods.
“In times of difficulty, China and Nigeria always stand together. We are confident that under the strong leadership of the Federal Government and with the resilience of its people, Nigeria will overcome this hardship and rebuild stronger,” Dunhai said.
The ambassador further highlighted broader economic ties, recalling President Xi Jinping’s recent announcement of zero-tariff treatment on 400 tariff lines for African countries with diplomatic relations with China, including Nigeria. He said the measure would boost Nigeria’s exports, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.
The $1 million grant will focus on communities worst hit by recent flooding in Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Borno, Taraba, and Adamawa States.
With this support, the Federal Government is expected to scale up relief distribution and accelerate recovery efforts in some of the country’s most severely affected communities.
