Chinese Envoy Urges West African Leaders To Resist External Interference

Abuja, Nigeria – Yu Dunhai, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, has issued a strong call to West African political leaders to reject any form of foreign interference, particularly from major global powers.

Speaking on Friday at a student exchange program between Tsinghua University (China) and the University of Abuja titled “Civilisational Exchange and Mutual Learning between China and Nigeria,”

Ambassador Yu emphasised the importance of regional autonomy in maintaining peace and security.

“I understand many people are concerned about the security situation in West Africa,” Yu said.

“However, we must object to any foreign interference, particularly from major powers. We must uphold equality, equity, and peace; all civilisations are equal and emerge from their own distinct circumstances.”

The ambassador emphasised the importance of people-to-people exchange in improving Sino-Nigerian relations.

He emphasised Nigeria’s significant development potential and stressed the importance of stronger bilateral ties that go beyond government and business interactions, ultimately relying on strong people-to-people connections.

Ambassador Yu cited numerous cultural exchange initiatives between China and Nigeria, such as co-hosted cultural weeks, festivals, and the establishment of cultural centres in both countries, as examples of the existing strong foundation.

The ambassador drew parallels between China and Nigeria, pointing out several key similarities: both countries are largely pacifist, with rich histories of not initiating wars since their respective republics were founded; both have diverse multi-ethnic cultures characterised by peaceful coexistence; and both achieved independence after overcoming colonial subjugation.

He emphasised the shared value of peace, citing ancient Chinese philosophy as well as China’s own 70-year track record of peacefully resolving border disputes.

Ambassador Yu also strongly advocated for the celebration of diversity, stating that “the beauty of the world lies in its diversity.”

He used his extensive travel experiences to demonstrate the distinct contributions that each nation makes to global civilisation, arguing against a homogenised world devoid of cultural diversity.

He concluded by emphasising China’s determination to create a “community with a shared future for all mankind.”

The ambassador’s remarks highlight China’s growing engagement with West Africa and support for a multipolar world order.