China to establish Africa’s first insulin plant in Nigeria — Ambassador
China has announced plans to support the establishment of Africa’s first local insulin production facility in Nigeria, a move expected to reduce the country’s dependence on imported drugs and position it as a biotechnology hub for the continent.
Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, revealed the initiative on Wednesday in Abuja during a reception marking the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. He said Chinese companies were already in talks with Nigeria to actualize the project, describing it as a milestone in China-Africa cooperation.
“We are eager to share development opportunities with African countries, including Nigeria, and the rest of the world,” Dunhai said.
The envoy highlighted major Chinese-backed projects in Nigeria, including the Lekki Deep Sea Port — projected to generate $360 billion in economic benefits and create 170,000 jobs — and the Abuja Water Supply Project, completed in June to provide clean water for nearly 3 million residents.
Dunhai also praised Nigeria’s endorsement of China’s Global Governance Initiative (GGI), adding that both countries were working more closely under frameworks such as the Belt and Road Initiative. He stressed that China’s partnership with Nigeria had matured into a “comprehensive strategic partnership” following President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Beijing last year.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, represented by Senator Babangida Hussaini, commended the growing cooperation, noting that Chinese investments in roads, railways, power plants, and industrial parks are reshaping Nigeria’s infrastructure. He reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to advancing ties through parliamentary diplomacy.
The partnership also extends to education and culture. Thousands of young Nigerians are currently studying in China, while Mandarin has been added to Nigeria’s senior secondary school curriculum. The ambassador also celebrated the achievements of Ms. Issah Abiola, Nigeria’s first female train driver trained in China, who recently received China’s “Friendship Envoy Award.”
Dunhai concluded by pledging that China would continue aligning its cooperation with President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, saying both countries share a vision of mutual growth and prosperity.
