Lagos Govt lauds Chinese envoy’s impact on China-Nigeria ties
The Lagos State Government has commended Chinese Consul General in Lagos, Ms Yan Yuqing, for deepening China-Nigeria cooperation and supporting initiatives that directly impacted residents.
The Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, gave the commendation at a reception to mark the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and bid farewell to Yan after over three years in office.
The reception held on Monday in Lagos.
The newsmen report that the envoy arrived in Lagos on May 25, 2023, becoming the eighth and first female Consul General of China in Lagos.
Salu-Hundeyin said Yan played an important role in facilitating engagements between Lagos and China in trade, investment, culture, education, healthcare, technology, renewable energy and people-to-people exchanges.
She said the partnerships had created opportunities for knowledge transfer, investment, institutional cooperation and livelihoods for Nigerians.
“As Nigeria and China mark 55 years of diplomatic relations in 2026, we have a strong foundation upon which to build an even more dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership.”
The SSG also commended Yan for supporting, through the Chinese Consulate and Chinese community, cataract surgeries for people from financially disadvantaged families and underserved communities.
According to her, the initiative demonstrates that diplomacy should extend beyond official ceremonies and agreements to address the everyday realities and aspirations of the people.
“Your brilliant contribution cannot be measured only in achievements facilitated, investments attracted, and official engagements undertaken.
“It can also be measured in the lives you have touched, the families you have encouraged, and the hope you have restored.
“You have demonstrated that stronger diplomatic relations are built on trust, respect, compassion and tangible benefits for the people,” she said.
Earlier, Yan expressed gratitude to Nigerians and friends of China who had supported China-Nigeria friendship and cooperation throughout her tenure.
She said she had worked with people across the consular district to expand mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Nigeria.
“Political mutual trust has kept growing, and our development plans have been well aligned.
“Regardless of changes in the international landscape, China’s commitment to China-Nigeria friendship and support for Nigeria’s development path will remain unchanged,” Yan said.
Yan added that the period of her stay in Lagos remained among the most precious memories of her life.
“Three years may seem both short and long: short in the time we have shared together, yet long in the friendships we have forged along the way.
“I have fallen deeply in love with this charming and vibrant country, especially Lagos, a state full of potential and hope,” she said.
Also speaking, the First Lady of Lagos State, Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu highlighted the importance of China-Nigeria cooperation in creating opportunities for young people, women, education and skills development.
Sanwo-Olu said stronger international partnerships should strengthen communities while creating opportunities for women and young people to contribute to development.