Nigeria backs China’s Global Governance Initiative

By Kunle Sanni –

The Federal Government has thrown its weight behind China’s newly unveiled Global Governance Initiative (GGI), describing it as a timely contribution to strengthening the international system.

In a statement issued Thursday by Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria commended Beijing for launching the initiative at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Plus meeting in Tianjin on September 1, 2025.

The GGI, which builds on China’s Global Development, Global Security, and Global Civilization initiatives, is designed to tackle major governance challenges, including climate change, digital inequality, emerging technologies, and the reform of global institutions.

According to the ministry, the initiative emphasizes five core principles: sovereign equality, rule of law, multilateralism, people-centred governance, and results-driven action. Nigeria said these principles align with its national development goals, its policy of strategic autonomy, and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

“As one of Africa’s largest economies and an active participant in multilateral diplomacy, Nigeria views the GGI as a valuable platform for advancing shared priorities, including reform of the United Nations and inclusive governance in areas such as artificial intelligence, cyberspace, and outer space,” the statement read.

The Federal Government stressed that the initiative complements Nigeria’s commitment to building consensus across the Global South and fostering regional cooperation.

By endorsing the GGI, Nigeria reaffirmed its support for “a more just, inclusive, and effective international order—one that reflects the aspirations of all peoples and upholds the principles of shared responsibility and mutual respect,” the ministry said.