This disclosure was made by the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, Ms Yan Yuqing, during the 2025 Annual Schools’ Quiz and Debate Competition organised under the Ogun–Guangdong Free Trade Zone (OGFTZ) initiative. The event took place at the Community Civic Centre in Igbesa, Ogun State.
Yuqing noted that the steady growth in China–Nigeria trade relations underscores the importance of deepening people-to-people engagement, particularly through education. She explained that the OGFTZ’s support for academic programmes reflects China’s broader commitment to nurturing future leaders who can sustain and advance bilateral cooperation.
Describing the quiz and debate competition as more than an academic exercise, the envoy said it serves as a cultural bridge that promotes youth engagement and mutual understanding between both countries. She commended the OGFTZ for balancing industrial expansion with meaningful educational interventions in its host communities.
The Consul General also encouraged participating students to embrace the study of the Chinese language, urging them to see themselves as future ambassadors of friendship and cooperation between China and Nigeria.
The event was organised by China-Africa Investment FZC in collaboration with Wema Bank, Stanbic IBTC and several enterprises operating within the free trade zone.
In his remarks, the Oloja Ekun of Igbesaland, HRM Oba Abdulazeez Akinde, represented by HRM Engr. Teslim Nasiru, charged the students to remain disciplined and focused on their education. He described them as “leaders of today,” emphasising that their actions and dedication would shape their future and that of their communities. The monarch also praised China-Africa Investment FZC for sustaining initiatives that promote quality education and a supportive learning environment.
General Manager of China-Africa Investment FZC, Mr Zhao, reiterated the company’s commitment to community development, stressing that its investment in education goes beyond the annual competition. He applauded teachers for their dedication and assured stakeholders that the company would continue to support initiatives that uplift schools and students within the host areas.
Also speaking, Wema Bank’s Business Development Manager, Mr Abiodun Agbetola, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to youth empowerment and human capital development. He said Wema Bank remains supportive of programmes that enhance intellectual capacity and contribute to long-term national development.
As part of the initiative’s empowerment component, modern mowing machines were donated to 18 public schools across Igbesa and Ejila-Awori. The equipment is expected to help improve school environments and promote cleaner, safer learning spaces.
The event highlighted how growing economic cooperation between China and Nigeria is being complemented by investments in education and community development, reinforcing the broader goal of inclusive and sustainable partnership.