Chinese Diplomat Encourages Nigerian Government to Invest in Education and Healthcare for Poverty Alleviation

Cui Jianchun, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, has urged the Federal Government to focus on investing in education, healthcare, housing, and food to combat poverty within the country.

Jianchun shared this advice during an event in Abuja on Monday, where the Hausa edition of the book “Up and Out of Poverty” by Chinese President Xi Jinping was unveiled. He noted that Nigeria and China share common grounds, making the insights from the book applicable to Nigeria’s situation.

The ambassador highlighted that the book, written in 1988, contains President Xi’s thoughts on poverty eradication. It was this book that guided China’s efforts to substantially reduce extreme poverty from 2012 to 2022.

Jianchun explained that the foundation of poverty revolves around satisfying two fundamental needs and ensuring three fundamental guarantees.

The basic needs include food and clothing, while the guarantees encompass compulsory education, basic medical care, and secure housing.

He emphasized that Nigeria should address its challenges in the education and healthcare sectors to effectively tackle poverty.

He stressed that education is essential for progress and that a robust economy plays a pivotal role in poverty reduction.

He urged Nigeria to leverage its strengths, including natural resources, to create employment opportunities for its citizens.

George Akume, representing the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, highlighted the significance of the book launch, particularly for a country where a significant portion of the population, especially in the Northern region, lives below the poverty line.

The launch of the Hausa version of the book is seen as an avenue for Nigerians to gain insights from China’s developmental journey.

Hu Helping, the Chinese Minister of Culture and Tourism, also addressed the event, expressing that the world is grappling with various challenges, notably food insecurity and poverty.

He stated that the book’s launch serves to enlighten Nigerians about China’s successful path in overcoming poverty…[CONTINUE READING HERE]>>