Former Nigerian president says China’s growth is a great chance for Africa

Olusegun Obasanjo, the former president of Nigeria, has stated that China’s amazing transformation in recent decades is “a source of inspiration and opportunity for Nigeria and Africa,” highlighting the possibility for strategic cooperation to promote mutual progress and development.

In a recent interview with Xinhua, Obasanjo reflected on his recent trip to China in October 2024 and expressed his enthusiasm for the country’s progress.

He emphasized China’s “capacity for innovation and adaptation,” saying that “China changes every time you go there,” something Nigeria may take inspiration from.

“If it has been done in China, it can be done elsewhere,” the former president asserted.

Nigeria can learn a lot from China’s progress, Obasanjo said, emphasizing China’s special role in promoting world peace, shared prosperity, strategic alliances, and poverty reduction.

These accomplishments, he continued, show China’s capacity to change its society and its potential to advance world growth.

“A feat unparalleled in world history,” he said, China has lifted 800 million people out of poverty. He praised Beijing for its willingness to share its knowledge and help other developing countries “learn how to fish,” which he believes is crucial for enabling countries to generate their own wealth.

The elevation of China-Nigeria ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership in September 2024 will help develop trust and mutually beneficial outcomes, Obasanjo said, adding that Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country and largest economy, has much to gain from a stronger collaboration with China.

He claimed that China’s proposed projects, such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), present Africa with enormous potential to advance infrastructure development and intra-African trade.

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which involves more than 150 countries and 30 international organizations, aims to increase global connectivity and trade, he said, adding that better transportation and communication networks are essential for the development of the African continent.

China’s relationship with Africa is founded on strategic partnership, not exploitation, Obasanjo stated in response to worries about China’s growing global influence.

As part of this collaboration, he urged Nigeria to use its mineral and agricultural resources to promote industrialization and value addition. “Strategic relationships mean mutual benefit, economically, diplomatically, and technologically,” he stated.

“Fair trade, not aid, is the way forward,” Obasanjo stressed.

The former president underlined the value of leadership in fostering harmony, unity, and prosperity for all. At every level of government, he emphasized the importance of equity, justice, and inclusivity, cautioning that a world devoid of these values would be “dangerous for everyone.”

Obasanjo expressed optimism that China and Nigeria might work together to build a more wealthy, safe, and just world by embracing fair trade and fortifying their alliances.