China Urges Nigerian Media Not to Describe Taiwan as Sovereign, Offers Journalist Exchanges
China has urged Nigerian media organisations to avoid describing Taiwan as a sovereign state separate from China, while offering journalists professional training, exchanges and opportunities to visit the Asian country.
The appeal was made on Thursday, October 8, during a meeting between Chinese diplomatic representatives and Nigerian media executives in Lagos, where discussions focused on the One-China Principle, bilateral relations and media cooperation.
Xu Fan, Director of Bilateral Relations and Commerce at the Chinese Consulate General in Lagos, said Beijing’s position was rooted in its interpretation of historical records, international agreements and diplomatic arrangements established after the Second World War.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and opposes any description suggesting that the island is an independent sovereign state. Beijing also cited Nigeria’s diplomatic commitment to the One-China Principle, which Abuja reaffirmed in a joint statement with China in September 2025.
Taiwan, however, operates with its own elected government, military and institutions, and is governed separately from mainland China. Its international status remains disputed and is a major source of tension between Beijing and other world powers.
Beyond the diplomatic discussions, Chinese representatives offered opportunities for Nigerian journalists to participate in professional training, media exchanges and visits intended to deepen understanding of China and strengthen cooperation between media organisations in both countries.
The engagement comes amid expanding media and cultural cooperation between Nigeria and China, including training programmes for Nigerian journalists and broadcasting professionals.
However, the meeting also raises questions about the balance between diplomatic sensitivities and editorial independence. While journalists are expected to report accurately on international affairs, their coverage must remain guided by verified facts and independent editorial judgment rather than the preferences of governments.
For Nigerian media organisations, the challenge is to accurately explain China’s position, Taiwan’s self-governance and the wider diplomatic dispute without presenting contested political claims as undisputed facts.
