Nigeria’s flood relief campaign has received a significant boost with a $1 million grant from the Chinese government to support victims in the northern part of the country.

The donation was formalised at a signing ceremony in Abuja on Wednesday between the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, and the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai.

Describing the gesture as “a timely boost,” Bagudu said the support would strengthen ongoing national efforts to provide relief materials, restore livelihoods, and rebuild communities devastated by flooding.

“We firmly believe that today’s signing ceremony will open new avenues for collaboration, strengthening our strategic partnership for the mutual benefit of our peoples,” the minister said. He assured that the funds would be managed transparently, with joint monitoring and evaluation involving the Chinese Embassy.

Ambassador Dunhai, in his remarks, expressed China’s solidarity with Nigeria, recalling that both countries had recently suffered flooding disasters. “We would like to express our deepest condolences to those who lost their lives and also convey our support. In times of difficulty, China and Nigeria always stand together,” he said.

The envoy also highlighted broader bilateral relations, noting that President Xi Jinping recently announced zero-tariff treatment on over 400 tariff lines for African countries with diplomatic ties to China, including Nigeria. According to him, the policy will boost Nigeria’s exports to China, create jobs, and support long-term economic development.

The aid package will specifically target communities worst affected by recent flooding, especially in Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, Borno, Taraba, and Adamawa States, complementing Federal Government interventions to restore basic infrastructure and livelihoods.