Nigeria is set to host Africa’s first insulin production facility, following plans unveiled by the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai. The announcement was made in Abuja during a reception to mark the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
According to Yu, the project will revolutionize diabetes care across the continent by reducing dependence on imported insulin, improving blood sugar management, and preventing complications associated with the disease. He explained that Chinese firms are already in discussions with Nigerian partners to drive the initiative, positioning the country as a future hub for biotechnology in Africa.
“This project represents another tangible outcome of the strong partnership between China and Nigeria,” the envoy noted. He highlighted other joint efforts such as the Abuja Water Supply Project, which was completed in June with a daily capacity of 480,000 cubic meters and now provides clean water for nearly three million residents.
Yu also emphasized China’s commitment to aligning its development support with Nigeria’s “Renewed Hope” agenda and its eight priority areas. He said both nations were working closely to expand collaboration in trade, infrastructure, and technology while lifting China-Nigeria relations to new levels.
Recalling the success of the Lekki Deep Sea Port, which is projected to generate $360 billion in economic benefits and create about 170,000 jobs over the next four decades, Yu described such projects as proof that cooperation between both nations brings direct benefits to ordinary Nigerians.
At the reception, the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin—represented by Sen. Babangida Hussaini—delivered President Bola Tinubu’s goodwill message to China. He applauded the Asian giant’s transformation journey and its role in strengthening bilateral ties.
Jibrin stressed Nigeria’s determination to deepen cooperation with China across key sectors, including energy, agriculture, education, defence, and trade. “As legislators, we remain committed to creating the enabling environment, legal frameworks, and oversight needed to ensure that these partnerships remain transparent, sustainable, and beneficial for future generations,” he stated.
