By Florencemary Nwabueze
LAGOS – The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG Simeon Akpanudom, has received a high-level delegation from the Chinese Consulate General in Lagos, in a bid to further solidify the longstanding relationship between the Nigeria Police Force and China.
The courtesy visit, held at the Force Criminal Investigation Department- FCID Annex in Alagbon, Ikoyi, Lagos, was led by Consul General Ms. Yan Yuqing, accompanied by Second Secretary Alexander Liu Kai and Third Secretary Ricky.
Ms. Yan expressed deep appreciation for the warm bilateral relations between both countries, commending the Nigeria Police, particularly the FCID Annex, for its pivotal role in maintaining law and order and ensuring a safe environment for citizens and foreign nationals.
She specifically acknowledged Police efforts in securing Chinese nationals, businesses, and other interests operating in Nigeria.
The Consul General disclosed that the Consulate is exploring a special cultural exchange programme and a capacity development seminar on exporting to China, designed to deepen existing ties.
She noted that similar initiatives had been held in other African countries and that Nigeria Police officers would have opportunities to participate and share professional experiences.
Ms. Yan also formally invited the AIG and FCID leadership to the 77th anniversary celebrations of the founding of the People's Republic of China, describing it as an opportunity to promote cultural understanding and friendship.
Additionally, the Consulate offered a medical outreach programme focusing on eye health, through which FCID personnel would benefit from screening and basic care services.
She further highlighted the enduring China–Africa partnership and reaffirmed China's commitment to contributing to social and economic development, including initiatives that create employment opportunities, particularly for women and young people.
In his response, AIG Akpanudom thanked the Consul General for her continued commitment to strengthening relations with the Police.
He acknowledged the cordial and friendly ties between Nigeria and China over the years and assured the delegation of the Police Force's continued dedication to ensuring a secure environment for Chinese nationals and other foreign residents.
AIG Akpanudom welcomed the proposed cultural exchange and capacity development seminar, noting that such initiatives would provide valuable opportunities for knowledge sharing, professional interaction, and stronger institutional cooperation. He also welcomed the medical outreach, particularly the eye-care component, saying FCID personnel would greatly benefit.
AIG Akpanudom encouraged the Chinese Consul General and the Chinese community to continue providing timely information and assistance to the Police during investigations, stressing that effective information sharing remains critical to crime prevention and the safety of all residents.
He also expressed support for initiatives promoting Chinese language learning among Police personnel, noting that improved language skills would enhance communication and operational synergy.
The courtesy visit concluded on a positive note, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to deepening cooperation through security collaboration, cultural exchange, information sharing, capacity building, staff welfare, and people-oriented programmes.
A commemorative plaque was presented, symbolising the shared commitment to strengthening the longstanding friendship between Nigeria and the People's Republic of China.