Nigeria, China Sign $1 Million Grant Agreement for Flood Relief in Northern States
Nigeria has signed a $1 million grant agreement with China to support flood relief efforts.
Officials said the funds will aid affected communities and deepen cooperation between both nations.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has signed an Exchange of Notes (E/N) agreement with the Government of the People’s Republic of China for a $1 million grant to support emergency flood relief efforts in Northern Nigeria.
The signing ceremony, held in Abuja, was presided over by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, who described the grant as a timely and generous contribution to ongoing humanitarian operations in flood-affected communities.
“This support reflects the long-standing partnership between Nigeria and China, anchored on mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared vision for sustainable development,” the Minister said.
He assured that the Ministry, in collaboration with relevant government agencies, will ensure transparent and accountable use of the funds. According to him, a joint monitoring and evaluation mechanism will be established with the Chinese Embassy to track implementation and measure impact.
The Minister also emphasized that the grant would complement Nigeria’s ongoing relief initiatives, restore livelihoods in severely affected areas, and further strengthen cooperation with China in key sectors such as trade, agriculture, technology, and infrastructure.
Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, You Dunhai, reaffirmed his country’s solidarity with Nigeria during this period of crisis. Marking his first anniversary as Ambassador, he noted that relations between both nations had grown stronger, particularly following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to Beijing in September 2024.
He pointed to progress in trade, investment, cultural exchange, and multilateral collaboration, stressing that China remained committed to deepening its partnership with Nigeria. Ambassador You also highlighted President Xi Jinping’s June 2025 announcement granting zero-tariff access to African exports, including Nigeria’s, as part of efforts to stimulate economic growth and create jobs across the continent.
Offering condolences over the recent devastating floods, Ambassador You said China, which also faces seasonal flooding challenges, identifies with Nigeria’s struggles.
“China-Nigeria relations are built on equality, shared development goals, and true friendship,” he concluded.
