The House Committee on China-Nigeria Parliamentary Relations, on Tuesday, responded to comments attributed to a federal lawmaker representing Atakunmosa East/Atakunmosa West/Ilesa East/Ilesa West Federal Constituency, Sanya Omirin, cautioning him over remarks made about Taiwan during a recent public event.
The lawmaker was quoted in an article titled “Rep seeks Taiwanese support to boost palm oil production” following a workshop organised by the Taipei Trade Office in Iperindo, Osun State.
During the event, Omirin reportedly called for collaboration with the “Taiwanese government,” a reference the Committee described as inaccurate and contrary to Nigeria’s foreign policy.
In a statement issued by the Committee Chairman, Jaafaru Yakubu said, “We wish to clarify that Nigeria does not recognise any entity called the ‘Taiwanese government.’ The Taipei Trade Office in Nigeria is a non-diplomatic, commercial entity and does not represent a government.”
“As a federal lawmaker, Hon. Omirin should be fully aware that Taiwan is an integral part of China and that the Nigerian parliament does not recognise Taiwan as a separate entity.
“Any suggestion of collaboration with a “Taiwanese government” contradicts Nigeria’s foreign policy and undermines the strong bilateral ties with China, which have been built on mutual respect and the One-China Principle since 1971.”
The Committee reminded all public officials to be cautious in their statements and engagements with foreign entities to avoid misrepresenting Nigeria’s diplomatic positions.
“The People’s Republic of China has been a reliable partner in Nigeria’s development, supporting critical sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, and technology.
“Agricultural advancements, including those in palm oil production, can and should be pursued through legitimate channels, such as cooperation with China or other recognised international partners, in alignment with Nigeria’s diplomatic stance,” the chairman said.
Reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to the One-China Principle, Yakubu stressed, “We call on Hon. Omirin to retract any statements implying recognition of Taiwan as a separate entity and to publicly reaffirm his commitment to the One-China Principle.”
He concluded, “The Nigerian parliament remains united in its support for China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. We will continue to promote and strengthen the robust partnership between Nigeria and China for the mutual benefit of both nations.”
