Embassy of Nigeria Beijing, China

The Embassy of Nigeria in China on Tuesday 28th May, 2024 hosted the second Nigeria-China Business Forum in Beijing People’s Republic of China. The forum was centered on enhancing trade and investment cooperation between Nigeria and China.

In his remarks, Ambassador Babagana Wakil, reiterated the invitation for Chinese investors to consider investing in Nigeria. He also highlighted that Nigeria provides a secure environment for investors, as a result of favorable business policies implemented by the Nigerian Government.

On Friday, April 26th, 2024, Ambassador Babagana Wakil, the Charge D' Affaires of the Embassy of Nigeria in China, accompanied by Mr. Jibrilla, the Minister Consular, attended the 2nd China Hilly Agricultural Expo (Yongkang) Agricultural and Forestry Equipment Expo.

The expo was focused on showcasing the latest advancements in agricultural and forestry equipment, and it provided an opportunity for attendees to learn about the latest technologies and methods in the agricultural field.

In his remarks, Ambassador Babagana Wakil, highlighted various investment opportunities available in Nigeria while representatives from Tanzania, Namibia, Cambodia, Pakistan, and Afghanistan presented their respective country reports.

The Charge D’Affaires Embassy to Nigeria in China Ambassador Babagana Wakil, on Thursday 18th April, 2024 received in audience the Commandant of National Defence College of Nigeria, Rear Admiral OM Olotu, accompanied by his spouse and management team members.

During the visit, discussions centered on deepening cooperation in security and areas of mutual interest between Nigeria and China

On Tuesday 16th April 2024 the Embassy of Nigeria in China hosted the Nigeria-China Business Forum. The forum aimed to strengthen the relationship between Nigeria and the People's Republic of China and focused on the potential for cooperation in economic development to foster trade and investment relations between the two countries.

During his remarks, Ambassador Babagana Waki, Charge D’ Affaires emphasized that the cooperation between Nigeria and China will significantly strengthen economic ties and investment cooperation. He also reaffirmed that Nigeria's National policy of Ease of Doing Business plays a crucial role in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and that Nigeria has taken significant strides in implementing various reforms to simplify investment procedures. As a result, Ambassador Wakil called for more Chinese investors to invest in Nigeria.

The Charge D’Affaires Nigerian Embassy China Ambassador Babagana Wakil, on Monday 15th April, 2024 received in audience the delegation of course 32 Nigerian Defence College led by Brigadier General E.A Koleoso, accompanied by officers from the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Correctional Service, Nigerian Society of Engineers and participants from Congo and Germany.

The participants who are on a study tour in Beijing, China has discussions with the Charge D’ Affaire and Home-based Officers on ways to strengthen the existing relationship between Nigeria and China in the areas of security and defence.

龙年大吉

The Charge’ d’ affaires (CDA ai) Embassy of Nigeria in China Ambassador Babagana Wakil, on Friday 26th January, 2024 attended the China Africa Business Councils (CABC'S) African Ambassadors' Retreat in Beijing, China.

The retreat Aimed at strengthening China-Africa relationships and the promotion of private sector partnerships, as well as to bring closely African Ambassadors and private sector companies to discuss and develop China-Africa strategic priorities in line with AU's continental frameworks for FOCAC 2024. In addition, the retreat will allow CABC member companies the chance to gain deeper insights into Africa's potential and increase their investment capacity.

The Charge’ d’ affaires (CDA ai) Embassy of Nigeria in China Ambassador Babagana Wakil, on Tuesday 23rd January, 2024 attended a forum on China New Energy Investment Conference and Annual Meeting of China New Energy International Alliance.

In his remarks, Ambassador Babagana Wakil emphasized the significance of the conference in fostering and strengthening China-Nigeria collaboration in the new energy sector. He further stated that China and Nigeria's energy cooperation will accelerate Nigeria's economic recovery, therefore, Nigeria will continue to work closely with China in attaining the renewable energy goals.

The mother of all farewell receptions was held in the Embassy of Nigeria, Beijing in honour of Ambassador Baba Ahmad Jidda and his Spouse Zarah Yachilla Jidda.

The reception was attended by Home based officers, their spouses and Local Staff, representatives from various Embassies, organizations, Nigerians in Diaspora and Chinese business partners and friends came together to bid farewell and express their gratitude to Ambassador Jidda unwavering commitment to diplomacy.

Earlier, numerous farewell receptions were held by different organizations and diplomatic groups in honour of the outstanding diplomat
Ambassador Baba Ahmad Jidda remains the longest serving and most celebrated Ambassador of Nigeria since establishment of diplomatic relationship between China and Nigeria in 1971. During his tenure as Ambassador, the relationship between the two countries took a positive height to achieving economic prosperity, infrastructural development, people to people cooperation and strong bilateral ties between Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China.

Many speakers shared personal experiences that demonstrated his compassion, honesty, humility and capacity to relate to others from different backgrounds and deal with difficult circumstances.

As a tradition, gifts and souvenirs were presented to the Ambassador and his spouse as symbol of appreciation.

The farewell reception was an emotional occasion, with heartfelt speeches expressing admiration and respect for the Ambassador’s service. The guests were treated to a sumptuous lunch in the Nigerian Residence.

Valedictory dinner in honour of Ambassador of Nigeria to China Baba Ahmad Jidda, OFR and his Spouse Zarah Yachilla Jidda was held by the Global Partners of DeHang Law office Beijing, China under the chairmanship of Director and Chief Global Partner of DeHeng Law Offices, Chairman Supervisor of China Africa Business Council.

The dinner have in attendance the Executive Director of Delong Mining Group, members of the DeHeng Law Offices, and a delegation from the Embassy of Nigeria.

Ms. WANG Li, appreciated Ambassador Jidda for his key role in the partnership between DeHeng Law Office and the Embassy of Nigeria to build a climate of trust in the business community and strengthen cross-cultural and people-to-people interaction.

In his remarks, Ambassador Jidda, thanked Ms. Wang for the dinner and was pleased to informed that now that the relationship between Nigeria and China was upgraded, he reaffirmed Nigeria's Embassy commitment to supporting communication exchange which will improve cultural communication, and promote project and Investment cooperation in international mediation. By extension, the partnership will significantly open ways for investors in Nigeria and strengthen the economic and cultural ties as well as the relationships between Nigeria and the People's Republic of China.

Continuation of valedictory dinner/reception in honour of Ambassador of Nigeria to China Baba Ahmad Jidda, OFR and his Spouse Zarah Yachilla Jidda was held by The African Diasporas Business Council (ADBC)

The dinner have in attendance members of the African Diaspora Bussiness Council, Chinese business partners, Nigerians in Diaspora and Home based officers and their spouses.

The President of the council Mr. Kay Gabriel, in his remarks congratulated His Excellency for his exemplary service throughout his tenure as the Nigerian Ambassador to China. He appreciated the Ambassador’s dedication, and diplomatic skills in promoting diplomatic ties between Nigeria and China. He emphasizes the noteworthy advancements and achievements made possible by the cordial diplomatic ties between the two countries.

In His remarks, Ambassador Jidda thanked the President of the African Diaspora Bussiness Council (ADBC), Mr. Kay Gabriel, for organizing the reception and applauded his patriotic thinking in promoting issues related to the economic development of Nigeria and Africa as a whole. The Ambassador also thanked other guests present including the Chairman Africa-China Bussiness Council and the President of Nigerians In Diaspora Organization (NIDO) in China.

The Ambassador appreciated the entire staff of the Nigerian Embassy and their families for their support and cooperation during his tenure as Ambassador. He therefore called for more dedication and commitment to work and urged them to explore investment opportunities and improve the bilateral relationship with Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China. He pointed out that recently Nigeria’s bilateral relationship with China has been upgraded to a strategic comprehensive partnership which means more opportunities and benefits for the two countries, especially for Nigeria.

In continuation of receptions in honour of departing Ambassador Baba Ahmad Jidda of Nigeria, yet another valedictory dinner was held by the Commonwealth Society of Beijing and the China Africa Cultural community.

The reception was attended by Captains of Industry, Ambassadors from different countries and other Diplomats from Nigerian Embassy and their families

In His remarks, Ambassador Jidda thanked the organizers of the event and appreciated their selfless service in promoting unity among member states, as well as promoting cooperation between the member states and the People’s Republic of China.
Ambassador Jidda thanked his spouse Zarah Jidda, the outgoing President of the Commonwealth Society of Beijing for steering the leadership of the society for 5 years

The Ambassador called for the expansion and diversification of trade between Nigeria and China which would bring mutual benefits and strengthen economic ties. He therefore encouraged Chinese investors to invest in the Nigerian economy due to the favorable government policies on ease of doing business.

The ambassador was pleased with the legacy he had left behind and the measures he had taken to change the Nigerian Embassy from its pre-arrival status to its current state.

Ambassador Jidda, appreciated the Government of the People’s Republic of China for their economic support and infrastructural development in Nigeria. He also appreciated the brotherly support and cooperation from the African group of Ambassadors in China.

The Ambassador further congratulated the new President of the Commonwealth Society Mrs. Nyima Jammeh Kinteh. The spouse of the Ambassador of Gambia. He urged her to continue with the good work in promoting unity among the member states as well as cooperation with the People’s Republic of China

The Ambassador of Nigeria to China Baba Ahmad Jidda, received in audience the Honourable Minister of Defence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, Mni accompanied by members of his delegation.

The Minister who is on official visit to China to attend the 10th Beijing Xiangshan Forum has extensive discussions with the Ambassador and his officials on the cordial security cooperation between China and Nigeria.

The Ambassador of Nigeria to China Baba Ahmad Jidda, OFR received in audience the Former Governor of Kaduna State Mallam Nasiru El-Rufa’i, accompanied by Mr. Khalipha Nazir Abdullahi at the Embassy of Nigeria.

Former Governor El Rufai and Ambassador Jidda discussed investment opportunities between China and Nigeria

Farewell dinner in honor of Ambassador of Nigeria to China Baba Ahmad Jidda, OFR, and his Spouse Zarah Yachilla Jidda organized by ECOWAS Ambassadors in China. Sunday 22nd October, 2023.

The dinner was attended by many African Ambassadors such as the Ambassador of Cameroon, Ambassador of Liberia. Ambassador of Djibouti, Ambassador of Namibia, Ambassador of Benin, Ambassador of Mali, Ambassador of Guinea, Ambassador of Ivory Coast, Ambassador of Guinea Bissau, Ambassador of Senegal, Ambassador of Ghana, Ambassador of Niger, and Ambassador of Sao Tome and Principe, including CDAs of Siera Leone, Togo and Burkina Faso.

In their remarks, they described Ambassador Jidda, as a big brother a role model and an institution whose leadership qualities are worthy of emulation, and he would be remembered for his selfless service in promoting unity among West Africa and the African Ambassadors.

In His remarks, Ambassador Jidda thanked the Ambassadors for the honor and called for cooperation and integration of the West African Region (ECOWAS), and Africa as a whole.

In continuation of H.E the Vice President of Nigeria Senator Kashim Shettima’s official visit to China, on Thursday 19th October, 2023 at the Embassy of Nigeria, H.E Vice President Shatima and his delegation of Ministers and Senior Government Officials were received by Ambassador Baba Ahmad Jidda, OFR. The Vice President witnessed the signing of MOUs and the presentation of letters of intent from different companies, corporations, and organizations in China.

The Vice President also had bilateral meetings with China Railway Cooperation (CRCC), China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC), Huawei Technologies Company, China Electronic Technology Group Corporation (CETC), China Communication Construction Company (CCCC) and Dahua Group.

Signing of the MOUs and meetings aimed at promoting partnerships, economic and technical cooperation between Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China.

On the occasion of the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, scheduled to hold on 17th-18th October, 2023 the Ambassador of Nigeria to China, Baba Ahmad Jidda, OFR received H.E the Vice President of Nigeria Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, and high-level Nigerian delegations in Beijing, China on Monday 16th October, 2023 ahead of the International Forum.

At the Embassy of Nigeria, Beijing, China the the Vice President was received by West African Ambassadors, Home Based Officers, and Nigerian Community in China including the engineering students under the scholarship scheme between the government of Nigeria and the China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC).

In his welcome address, Ambassador Jidda welcomed His Excellency and his entire delegation to China and informed that the Nigerian relation with China has been cordial since the establishment of Diplomatic relations in 1971. He assured that the visit of H.E Vice President would serve as a step forward to further cooperation and synergy between Nigeria and China.

In his remarks, H.E Kashim Shettima urged Africans to embrace the spirit of cooperation unity and integration for peaceful coexistence and for democracy to prevail in the West Africa and Africa as a whole.

At the end of the visit, the delegations were treated to a variety of Nigerian cuisines during a luncheon hosted by the Ambassador at his residence.

Preparatory to the visit of His Excellency, the Vice President of Nigeria Senator Kashim Shettima, to China, the Ambassador of Nigeria to China, Baba Ahmad Jidda has been holding series of meetings with officers of the Embassy to ensure a successful Presidential visit to China by the Vice President.

The Vice-President who will be representing the President of Nigeria H.E Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR will attend and participate in the Belt and Road forum for International Cooperation on 17th-18th October, 2023. The visit is on the invitation of the Government of the People’s Republic of China.

Ambassador Baba Ahmed Jidda: Celebrating The Global Institution On Exit.
By: Inuwa Bwala

For the people of China and staff of the Nigerian Embassy in China, it was a season of lamentations, as a friend departs. For Nigeria and the people of Borno state,it is to welcome home a worthy Ambassador and son.For fellow diplomats, it was a time to celebrate the accomplishments of the doyen.

Whatever the feeling was, there is something to cherish and to also miss with the exit of Ambassador Baba Ahmed Jidda as Nigeria's Ambassador to the Peoples Republic of China.
The series of farewell receptions that were lined up in honour of the diplomat in Beijing, China, was a testimony of his excellent outing and good human relations. Starting with the first family reception organized by the Permanent Representative of the African Union Ambassador Ramatalla together with the Ambassador of Sudan and the visiting Ambassador of Nigeria in South Korea Ambassador Ali Magashi, it was a galaxy of sort.

Coming after that, was another reception organized by the Ambassador of Cameroon Martin Mpana along with Ambassador of Jordan, Senegal, DRC, Sao Tome, and Principe.

Through that of the Ambassador of Liberia along with the Ammbassador of Benin, Senegal, and Ghana, it was a demonstration of true friendship and brotherhood between Nigeria and other countries, especially in Africa. Several other farewell receptions have been arranged with the common goal of telling Ambassador Jidda and the world, that the good works people do, shall always speak for them at the point of exit from that work.

Those of us who have been beneficiaries of Baba Jiddas' rich reservoir of knowledge and service can testify that he is being recalled home at a time people are yearning for more of his services.

Congratulations to the Global Institution.

The Ambassador of Nigeria to China H.E Baba Ahmad Jidda OFR, on Sunday 8th October, 2023 accompanied by a delegation of the Embassy of Nigeria in China attended the Premiere of Belt and Road Initiative Documentary “Collaborative Construction” and a book launch titled “Collective Construction”. The documentary gathered accounts of CRCC's major construction projects around the world and featured significant Nigerian projects like the Abuja Railway and the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (Blue Line).

The event aimed at deepening cooperation and promoting infrastructure development and advancement through the good friendship between Nigeria and People’s Republic of China.