- Seeks reassessment of $50bn aid package for Africa
- President decorates ADC with Colonel Rank
President Bola Tinubu has called on the government of the People’s Republic of China to raise the existing $2 billion currency swap between Nigeria and China to bolster trade between the two nations.
He also called for a reassessment of the $50 billion aid package for Africa, initially announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping last year.
Recently, China and Nigeria renewed their currency swap agreement, valued at 15 billion Yuan (approximately $2 billion), aimed at enhancing trade and investment.
During a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the State House in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu stated that increasing the currency swap would accelerate infrastructure development in Nigeria and strengthen bilateral relations.
“We need a larger currency swap. The current amount approved for Nigeria is insufficient given our needs. An increase would be greatly appreciated, and it would help solidify our bond,” the President was quoted as saying in a statement by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga.
Regarding the $50 billion pledged by China to support Africa, Tinubu emphasized that the continent’s infrastructure needs require a stronger commitment, advocating for a review to better reflect current realities.
“I’m pleased you are part of China’s top decision-making body. We hope you can leverage your position to enhance project funding. I support the $50 billion initiative and appreciate your contribution to Africa’s growth.
“The infrastructural demands of Africa exceed that amount, and we aim to progress as swiftly as our counterparts. Africa values its relationship with China and seeks deeper collaboration for infrastructure development,” he stated.
Tinubu also requested China’s backing for Nigeria’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, saying, “As a member of the UN Security Council, we hope you will use your influence to help Nigeria secure this position.”
He expressed gratitude to President Xi Jinping for the warm welcome he received during his visit to China last year and noted that Africa, especially Nigeria, is ready to meet developmental goals and contribute to project funding.
“We are prepared to advance and achieve various developmental goals. Following our discussions, we signed numerous MOUs and planned several action programmes.
“My visit during FOCAC was productive, resulting in several comprehensive MOUs. I have appointed one of our top experts, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, to coordinate Nigeria-China relations and ensure the implementation of these agreements,” he added.
Tinubu acknowledged the timely visit of Yi and extended his condolences for the recent earthquake in Tibet, commending the Chinese government for its swift response to protect lives.
In response, Yi thanked President Tinubu for appointing a Director General and Global Liaison for the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership to oversee the execution of the MOUs aimed at rapidly developing Nigeria’s economy.
“I appreciate Nigeria’s adherence to the one-China principle, and we will continue to support Nigeria in achieving its Renewed Hope Agenda, combating terrorism, and ensuring regional security,” he stated.
Yi noted that Chinese investments in Nigeria would focus on job creation and infrastructure development, mentioning that the Chinese National Development Bank had begun funding various development projects.
He expressed support for including an African nation in the UN Security Council, calling it a historical injustice that needs rectification.
“We stand with Africa and will not support any country that invades another,” he added.
The foreign minister welcomed Nigeria’s potential membership in BRICS and its participation in global development initiatives.
He also expressed full support for Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director General of the World Trade Organization, for a second term.
Yi lauded President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and commitment to addressing Africa’s needs, which require China’s support.
“You have brought Renewed Hope to the people of Nigeria. Your economy has maintained strong momentum, and Nigeria’s global influence has grown steadily. Nigeria plays a crucial role in promoting regional peace and has become a significant force for stability in Africa.
“We congratulate Nigeria on its achievements and believe that under your leadership, the country will attain even greater success,” the Chinese foreign minister concluded.
President decorates ADC with Colonel Rank
Also, President Tinubu has decorated Nurudeen Yusuf, his aide-de-camp (ADC), with his new rank of Colonel.
The president decorated Yusuf on Thursday at the State House, Abuja.
Yusuf was appointed Tinubu’s ADC in April 2023 before his inauguration on May 29.
In a statement, Bayo Onanuga, the president’s special adviser on information and strategy, said the president described his ADC as a “reliable officer, deserving of elevation in rank”.
The presidential spokesperson quoted Tinubu as saying that he envisions the ADC achieving greatness in his military career.
Onanuga said Yusuf, formerly a Lieutenant Colonel, was promoted to the rank of colonel by Nigerian Army promulgation AHQ MS/G1/300/252/2 on December 19, 2024, noting that the rank’s seniority became effective on September 22, 2023.
“You all know Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf. He carries a lot of responsibilities. I am joyous that the military authorities have promoted my ADC,” the statement reads.
“He is worthy of the promotion, and I am very happy for him. Nurudeen is a diligent and reliable officer with the right temperament. I believe he will go farther and farther in his profession.
“We are with you. We love and really care about you. We will continue to do so. Character defines man, and it has defined you. With your promotion, you are highly respected. From the bottom of my heart, I congratulate you. We thank God for you.
“May God bless our armed forces and keep them safe.”
The presidential spokesperson added that Tinubu commended the ADC’s wife for “keeping the home front steady, calm, and reliable” during his service.
Yusuf expressed gratitude to the president for trusting him as his ADC and reaffirmed his loyalty.
“I stand here today filled with immense gratitude and humility as I reflect on this remarkable occasion of my decoration with the rank of Colonel in the Nigerian Army,” he said.
“This moment is a personal milestone and a testament to the enduring values of the unwavering support of those around me.
“First and foremost, I thank the Almighty Allah for His grace, guidance, and blessings upon my career and life. Without Him, this day would not have been possible.
“To His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief, I am deeply honoured by the privilege to be granted promotion to this enviable rank.
“I wish to use this unique opportunity to restate that your leadership and trust have been a source of inspiration, and serving as your Aide-de-Camp has been a profound privilege and the highest honour of my career.
“Thank you for your confidence in me and for being here to share in this special moment.”
In attendance were AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman, governor of Kwara State; Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser; Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police; Christopher Musa, Chief of Defense Staff; and Bello Matawalle, Minister for State for Defense.
Others included Kudirat Yusuf, the ADC’s mother; Ganiyat Yusuf, his wife; and Abiodun Yusuf, his daughter.
