Prof. Peng Liyuan, the People’s Republic of China’s First Lady, donated medical equipment to Nigeria’s First Lady, Aisha Buhari to support Nigeria in the fight against the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. She was represented by Mr Zhao Yong, Deputy Ambassador of the Chinese Embassy in Abuja, who handed over the equipment to Nigeria’s First Lady in Abuja on Wednesday.
China’s First Lady in her message said that solidarity, cooperation and mutual assistance among countries is crucial to defeating COVID-19. Hence the medical aid was reciprocating Nigeria’s support at the height of China’s Covid-19 battle. The donation was described as a token of friendship toward Nigerian mothers, children and young people. She acknowledged the strategic partnership between both countries, promising that China will continue to support Nigeria’s fight against COVID-19. Prof. Peng reiterated the message of Chinese President, Xi Jinping at the Extraordinary China-Africa Summit on solidarity against COVID-19 held in June.
The items were received on behalf of Aisha Buhari by Hajiya Hajo Sani, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Administration and Women Affairs. The representative appreciated the Chinese First Lady for her gesture and concern the welfare on Nigerians. She stated that the significant donation proof that the bilateral relations between Nigeria and China are growing stronger beyond international policies. She said the items would support Nigeria’s ongoing efforts in fighting the pandemic, assuring Peng that the items would be justly distributed and used.
Aisha Buhari also appreciated the Chinese first lady for keeping to her promise, adding that she had pledged to support African First Ladies in their fight against HIV/AIDs and even extended her collaboration beyond that to the emerging issue of COVID-19. The Nigerian first lady assured that she would continue to do her best and ensure the items got to the end-users, as it would go right to the grassroots. The items donated include disposable medical masks and infrared thermometers.
During the first ladies sideline meeting at the Forum of China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Sept 2018, they both signed an agreement in Beijing, pledging to the fight against HIV/AIDS and other diseases in Africa.