China has reaffirmed its support for the development of a rapid response force to help tackle Africa’s increasing security challenges. This commitment was made by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a joint press conference with Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar in Abuja on Thursday.
Wang emphasized that China is prepared to collaborate with African nations in advancing global security initiatives and in fostering a China-Africa community with a shared future. “We are committed to advancing a partnership for common security,” he stated, outlining China’s focus on bolstering Africa’s security infrastructure.
As part of its support, China has committed 1 billion yuan (roughly $135 million) in military aid to African nations. This funding will be used to train 6,000 military personnel and 1,000 police officers and law enforcement agents across the continent.
The initiative is in line with promises made during the China-Africa summit in Beijing last September, where China expressed its support for the strengthening of the African Standby Force and other rapid response units. Wang also highlighted China’s assistance in supporting African nations with counter-terrorism and peacekeeping operations.
With Africa facing ongoing security threats, including insurgencies and terrorism, the establishment of the rapid response force is seen as a crucial step toward enhancing the continent’s capacity to manage security crises independently.
Wang’s visit to Nigeria marks the final leg of his four-nation tour aimed at strengthening China-Africa relations and advancing strategic partnerships.