Beijing Extends Support to Nigeria Amidst Devastating Floods
By Victor Raballa in Nairobi, Kenya | chinadaily.com.cn | Updated: 2025-09-20 01:00
Beijing has significantly bolstered Nigeria’s flood relief efforts with a combined donation of humanitarian aid and financial assistance, demonstrating a commitment to its strategic partnership with the West African nation. The Red Cross society of China recently delivered 1,000 family relief kits to the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) to aid those impacted by widespread flooding.
The handover of the kits took place at the NRCS national headquarters in Abuja,with Zhou Hongyou,a minister at the Chinese embassy in Nigeria,and Abubakar Kende,the NRCS secretary-general,in attendance. Alongside the material support, the Chinese government announced a $1 million contribution earmarked for the reconstruction of communities ravaged by the recent deluge.
“China stands ready to work hand in hand with Nigeria to write a new chapter in the China-Nigeria comprehensive strategic partnership,” stated Minister Zhou during Thursday’s event, highlighting the importance of the bilateral relationship.
Abubakar Kende of the NRCS expressed profound gratitude for the assistance, emphasizing its critical role in providing immediate relief to families who have lost their homes and livelihoods. “We are deeply thankful to the Red Cross society of China and the Chinese government.Nigeria is willing to deepen cooperation with China to create a brighter future for both countries,” he affirmed.
Nigeria has been grappling with severe flooding this year, affecting 30 of its 36 states.Official government statistics reveal a devastating impact: over 1 million people have been affected, with a tragic loss of 269 lives and more than 640,000 individuals displaced.
International aid organizations, including the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, are currently distributing essential supplies such as tarpaulins, blankets, mosquito nets, and emergency cash to vulnerable populations. However, these efforts are severely hampered by dwindling resources, with humanitarian groups reporting they are able to address less than 10 percent of the urgent needs. Concerns are also mounting regarding increased risks of gender-based violence within overcrowded shelters and camps, as well as the urgent need for protection for separated and unaccompanied children.
