….Xi Jinping, Chinese leader pledges $60bn aid to Africa
President Muhammadu Buhari pledged Friday in Johannesburg that his administration will take the necessary action to correct lapses which have hindered the implementation of agreements signed with China by past administrations to develop rail transport in Nigeria.
A statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Femi Adesina said while speaking during bilateral talks with President Xi Jinping at the Forum of China-Africa Cooperation, Buhari said the Federal Government will strive to fulfil Nigeria’s obligations in the agreements, as their implementation will help to boost the country’s economy and generate thousands of new jobs.
“I have looked into the previous agreements and we will now keep our part of the bargain,” President Buhari assured President Xi.
The President applauded China’s ongoing support for the development of Nigeria’s agricultural sector, noting that Chinese advisers deployed to some states are helping to train farmers on water conservation and the use of more productive seeds.
President Xi described Nigeria as a very important ally of China in Africa, saying that the two countries need to boost their bilateral relations for the good of their citizens.
He said that China was keen to work with Nigeria for the mutual benefit of both countries.
At the opening session of the summit attended by Buhari and more than 30 other African leaders, the Chinese President pledged $60 of new development aid to African countries.
-Leadership
