Institute of Nigeria-China Development Studies makes debut at UNILAG

University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka has unveiled the institute of Nigeria-China Development Studies (NCDS), a research institute established to inject new vitality into Nigeria-China development as well as collaboration in order to strengthen the relationship between both countries.

The unveiling, which took place at the institution’s senate chambers was followed by a signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UNILAG and Chinese Investors Association for Development and Promotion (CIADP).

Addressing reporters on the occasion of the unveiling of NCDS, the vice chancellor, Prof Oluwatoyin Ogundipe said the institute was established to brace up with current trends in global affairs.

“The very special nature of this establishment is that it transcends the popular intellectual movement into Chinese studies worldwide. This new institute will create multiple avenues for the studies of Chinese civilisation, alongside Nigerian civilisation” he said.

Prof Ogundipe stressed the need for both Nigeria and Chinese civilisation to interact with a view to identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each other to provide a platform for mutual growth.

“NCDS was advanced by three parties, the Confucius Institute at UNILAG, CIADP and the office of the vice chancellor, UNILAG. The association also implemented internal scholarship to 47 students of the Confucius Institute at various levels of the HSK -based certificate courses for a one-year intensive language training in Chinese (Mandarin) to mark the 47-year relationship between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China” he said.

The VC further said the focus is on diplomacy and treaties on bilateral and multilateral activities across all aspects of interaction as Nigeria has a robust relationship with China from every perspective with peculiarity.

Prof. Youngjing Wang, Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute said the university has the right people to give right directives and at such UNILAG is the right place for NCDS.