News Investigators/ Rep. Jaafaru Yakubu, Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on China-Nigeria Parliamentary Relations, says Nigeria recognises only China as a sovereign state, while Taiwan is merely a non-independent Chinese territory.
Yakubu explained that Nigeria was resolutely committed to the principle of One-China as the cornerstone of her diplomatic relations with China, and only recognised Taiwan as part of China.
Reacting on Tuesday to remarks made by a fellow lawmaker that the House of Reps sought “Taiwanese government’s” support to boost palm oil production, he described the comments as misleading.
He said that the comments made during a workshop organised by the Taiwan Trade Office did not align with Nigeria’s official foreign policy position on Sino-Nigerian diplomatic relations.
“Nigeria recognises the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate government representing all of China and firmly upholds that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory.
“Our committee strongly opposes any form of Taiwanese independence or actions that suggest recognition of Taiwan as a separate entity.
“We will continue to promote and strengthen the robust partnership between Nigeria and China for the mutual benefit of both nations,” he said.
The committee chairman further clarified that the Taiwanese Trade Office in Lagos was just a commercial, non-diplomatic entity, which did not represent a government.
“Nigeria does not recognise any entity called the Taiwanese government. The Taiwan Trade Office in Lagos operates solely as a non-diplomatic, commercial entity and does not represent a government.
“Taiwan is an integral part of China, and any suggestion otherwise contradicts Nigeria’s foreign policy and undermines our strong bilateral ties with the People’s Republic of China,” he said.
Yakubu urged public officials to exercise caution in their comments to avoid misrepresentation that could jeopardise Nigeria’s strategic partnership with China, a key ally since diplomatic relations were established in 1971.
“China has been a reliable partner in Nigeria’s development, supporting critical sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, and technology.
“Agricultural advancements, including palm oil production, should be pursued through legitimate channels, such as cooperation with China or other recognised international partners, in alignment with Nigeria’s diplomatic stance,” he noted.
The lawmaker reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the One-China Principle, emphasising that it remained the cornerstone of Nigeria’s diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China.
NAN
