China’s consul general in Lagos, Yan Yuqing, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the Nigerian police, particularly in security and information sharing.

Ms Yuqing gave the assurance during a courtesy visit to the assistant inspector-general of police, Simon Akpanudom, on Tuesday in Lagos.

Mr Akpanudom heads the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex.

The delegation from the Chinese consulate general included Second Secretary Alexander Kai and Third Secretary Ricky.

In a statement issued by the FCID Annex spokesperson, Aminat Mayegun, the visit aimed to strengthen the cordial relationship and cooperation between Nigeria and China.

Ms Yuqing commended the police, particularly the FCID Annex, for its role in maintaining law and order, combating crime and ensuring the safety of citizens, residents and foreign nationals.

She specifically appreciated the police for providing security for Chinese nationals, businesses and other interests operating in Nigeria.

Ms Yuqing said the consulate was exploring a cultural exchange programme and a capacity-building seminar on exporting to China.

She said the seminar would give police officers opportunities to share knowledge and professional experience.

Ms Yuqing also offered a medical outreach programme focusing on eye health for personnel of the FCID Annex, including eye screening and basic eye-care services.

She further pledged the Chinese community’s continued cooperation with the police through timely and relevant information to support crime prevention, intelligence gathering and criminal investigations.

Responding, Mr Akpanudom appreciated the consul general for the visit and reaffirmed the force’s commitment to sustaining the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and China.

He welcomed the proposed cultural exchange, capacity development seminar and medical outreach, saying the initiatives would promote knowledge sharing, professional interaction, capacity building and staff welfare.

The AIG also encouraged the Chinese community to continue providing timely information and assistance to the police, stressing that effective information sharing and cooperation were critical to preventing and combating crime.

Mr Akpanudom also expressed support for initiatives that would promote learning the Chinese language among police personnel.

The police boss noted that improved communication skills would enhance mutual understanding and operational cooperation between the police and the Chinese community.

(NAN)