CHINA PLEDGES GREATER SUPPORT FOR NIGERIAN WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT – AMBASSADOR YU DUNHAI 07-03-25
By Sadiq Aminu. The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai, has reaffirmed China’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering Nigerian women through strengthened bilateral cooperation.
He made this pledge at an event tagged “Her Story and Future”, held in Abuja to commemorate the 115th International Women’s Day.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Yu extended warm greetings to women in Nigeria and globally, emphasizing this year’s United Nations theme: “For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment.”
He also highlighted the significance of the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, describing it as the most progressive blueprint for advancing women’s rights worldwide.
“Over the past 30 years, we have witnessed remarkable achievements by women in politics, the economy, technology, and culture,” Yu said. “Gender has never been a barrier to human exploration. When women enjoy equal education and fair access to resources, they make history.”
The ambassador underscored China’s strong commitment to gender equality, stating that it remains a fundamental state policy. He noted that since the founding of the People’s Republic of China 75 years ago, the country has implemented over 100 laws and regulations to protect women’s rights. As a result, women in China now account for nearly 45% of the workforce, with female entrepreneurs dominating the internet sector at 55%.
Ambassador Yu also highlighted the ongoing “Two Sessions” political event in Beijing, where female representatives are actively shaping China’s national development. He described Chinese women as the “half of the sky,” playing a vital role in the country’s economic and social progress.
On Nigeria-China relations, Yu acknowledged the deepening cooperation between both nations, particularly in sectors that benefit Nigerian women. “China’s partnership with Nigeria has provided better medical resources, agricultural skills, and business opportunities for many Nigerian women,” he stated.
He further emphasized the importance of last year’s visit by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to China, which elevated bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. “China will work with Nigeria to implement the consensus reached by our leaders, including promoting women’s exchanges and empowerment under the Ten Partnership Action Plans,” he added.
Yu expressed confidence that more Nigerian women would benefit from high-quality collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative, helping them realize their dreams and contribute to a brighter future.
“As we celebrate this happy moment together, I wish every woman and girl success in achieving her dreams and shining brightly,” the ambassador concluded.
The event was attended by government officials, diplomats, gender advocates, and women leaders, all of whom echoed the call for continued efforts to advance women’s rights and opportunities in Nigeria.