China promises to assist in rescuing Chibok girls

The Peoples Republic of China on Wednesday promised to assist the Federal Government in its quest to rescue schoolgirls abducted from Government Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State, on April 14.


The Chinese Premier, Mr Li Keqiang, made the promise during a bilateral talk he had with President Goodluck Jonathan at the Presidential Villa, Abuja as part of his official visit to Nigeria.

The development came less than 24 hours after the US promised to deploy troops and equipment in the country to help secure the girls’ release.

In a joint press conference at the end of the bilateral talk, Jonathan said China promised to help Nigeria sustain its sovereignty.

He said the Premier promised not only to help rescue the abducted girls, but also to assist the country in its fight against terror.

He said, “We agreed to deepen cooperation in the field of defence and security and strengthen cooperation in counter terrorism, anti-piracy and combating organised crimes.

“The Premier promised that China will assist Nigeria in our fight against terror especially our commitment and efforts to rescue the girls that were taken away from a Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State.”

He added that China had also promised to assist the country in the development of its infrastructure like power, transportation, which include air and railway.

In his remarks, the Chinese Premier said the two countries needed to strengthen their relationship and work together to fight terrorism.

He described Nigeria as a major country in Africa, saying China wants to take its partnership with the country to a higher level.

Promising that the Chinese government would honour its words, Keqiang said the two countries have agreed to strengthen their bilateral relations in infrastructure, health, aviation and rail among others.

In a communique released at the end of the meeting, the two leaders agreed to deepen cooperation in the areas of defence and security.

They promised to strengthen cooperation in counter-terrorism, anti-piracy and combating organised crimes.

“Both sides agreed that as members of the UN Security Council, they would continue to strengthen coordination and cooperation in the council.

“They expressed their resolve to strengthen coordination and cooperation in African peace and security affairs.

“The Nigerian side expressed appreciation for China’s efforts to actively participate in the meditation of hot spot issues in Africa,” the communique added.