Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has stressed the importance of transparency and mutual benefit in Africa’s global partnerships, particularly between Nigeria and China. He argued that these relationships should advance shared prosperity while safeguarding Africa’s long-term interests.
Makinde delivered the message during the opening of the second Ibadan Forum, held at Ibadan Business School and jointly organized by the University of Ibadan’s Department of History and Zhejiang Normal University, China. The forum, themed “Convergence or Divergence? Africa’s Development in Global Partnerships and a Shared Future,” brought together scholars, policymakers, and thought leaders to examine Africa’s role in a rapidly evolving global order.
Represented by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, Makinde urged African leaders to critically assess international agreements, ensuring that development partnerships reflect fairness and inclusivity. “We must not run opaque partnerships. They must be open to all stakeholders. That is how we promote convergence, not divergence,” he said. He added that collaborations with China must be equitable, supporting long-term development for Nigeria and the continent.
Acknowledging China’s rapid economic progress and global industrial influence, Makinde cautioned that African nations need to approach engagements strategically, making agreements clear and accessible. “Development should not be shrouded in complexity; it should be inclusive and understandable to all,” he emphasized.
The University of Ibadan’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, highlighted Africa’s need to take ownership of its development trajectory. He described the partnership with Zhejiang Normal University as more than academic—it is a platform for shared knowledge and strategic dialogue. Adebowale called on scholars to interrogate dominant narratives and promote African agency, framing the forum as a space for multi-perspective understanding between Nigerian and Chinese academics.
Faculty leaders reinforced this vision. Professor Rasheed Oyewole Olaniyi, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, stressed that Nigeria and China’s collaboration must be seen as mutually necessary. He pointed to China’s growing presence in Nigeria’s economy, particularly through Foreign Direct Investment, and argued that academic partnerships create the foundation for long-term cooperation.
From Zhejiang Normal University, Professor Xu Wei reaffirmed China’s commitment to deepening strategic partnerships with Africa, calling the forum “a bridge of knowledge and trust.” She proposed tripartite collaboration among universities, industries, and communities to create mentorship programs, industry-relevant curricula, and practical training opportunities, particularly in digital technology, governance, and education. Xu also advocated for African-led Chinese Studies to complement existing Chinese-African research efforts, including joint textbooks, databases, oral histories, and policy-focused research projects.
The forum underscored a shared goal: forging partnerships that are transparent, equitable, and capable of shaping a sustainable future for both Africa and its global allies.
