By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – Rights Activist and former Kaduna Central Senator, Comrade Shehu Sani, has hailed China for its consistent friendship and steadfast support for Nigeria, describing the Asian nation as a “faithful and unwavering ally” in times of both progress and global scrutiny.
In a statement on Wednesday released on his X handle, Sani commended China’s long-standing partnership with Nigeria, highlighting the country’s role in funding and executing key infrastructure projects such as railways, power plants, and highways.
He noted that while many countries have imposed strict immigration measures and stereotypes against Nigerians, China has continued to treat Nigeria with dignity and respect.
“China has opened its doors to Nigerians and made its resources available for our infrastructure development,” Sani said. “At a time when our citizens are being denied visas and deported from other countries, even within Africa, China refused to stigmatise Nigeria as a nation of drug or cyber criminals. This gesture of friendship should not be taken for granted.”
The former lawmaker also expressed gratitude for China’s diplomatic support of Nigeria’s sovereignty, especially amid growing global debates about foreign influence and internal governance. “Chinese solidarity and voice for our sovereignty at this time will forever be noted in our history,” he added.
However, Sani cautioned China against adopting a policy of vetting visa applicants based on their social media history, a practice already in place in some Western countries. He argued that such measures could unfairly penalise Nigerians for online expressions or opinions.
“I wish to appeal to China not to emulate the policy of assessing people’s social media activities before granting visas,” Sani urged. “Likewise, I appeal to my fellow Nigerians not to compel China towards that direction.”
Precise Post recalls that China remains one of Nigeria’s most significant trading partners, with bilateral trade exceeding $22 billion in 2024, according to data from the Chinese Embassy in Abuja. The partnership has also seen major projects like the Abuja–Kaduna railway, Lagos–Ibadan rail line, and several airport terminal upgrades funded through Chinese loans.
