Calabar, Nigeria – Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State on Friday welcomed the Chinese Consul General, Ms Yan Yuqing, in his office in Calabar, where he called for enhanced Chinese investment in the state.
The Consul General, accompanied by her team, presented anti-malaria drugs worth N35 million to support the state’s healthcare efforts. Governor Otu expressed gratitude for the donation, noting its significance in combating malaria and improving healthcare delivery.
Otu praised the enduring partnership between Cross River and China, highlighting the Chinese community’s contributions to trade, industrial development, and cultural exchange.
He assured the delegation of his administration’s commitment to safety and well-being for all residents, including Chinese nationals, and reaffirmed the state’s openness to collaborations aligned with its development goals.
Discussions during the visit centred on attracting Chinese investors to the Calabar Free Trade Zone, initiating infrastructure projects, and boosting the Calabar Carnival’s global appeal.
Ms Yan Yuqing lauded Cross River’s cultural richness and investment potential, emphasising China’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria.
She identified opportunities for collaboration in trade, agriculture, vocational education, and infrastructure development, reiterating China’s support for Nigeria’s progress.
The delegation included representatives such as Mr Qi Chenjun of CCECC Nigeria, Mr Yang Wenyi from the Chinese community in Cross River, and Mr Fan Yongsheng of Mutual Commitment Company Limited.