Learning from China’s path to national development, lessons for Nigeria

Nigeria has been advised to draw inspiration from China’s journey to national development. Terhember Wuam, a professor of economic history at Kaduna State University, stressed the importance of gleaning insights from China’s experiences during an international conference in Abuja titled “Understanding China’s Transformation: Reform, Opening Up, and Capitalism in China 1978 – Lessons for Nigeria.”

Mr. Wuam, who is also the president of the Association for United Asian Scholars, Nigeria (AUASN), suggested that Nigeria should learn a vital lesson from China: dedicating themselves to achieving modernization and development.

China faced a challenging history during the 19th and 20th centuries when it lagged behind industrialized nations. However, leaders and agents of change within China worked tirelessly to bring about reforms and modernization, propelling the nation into an era of remarkable economic growth.

Wuam recommended that Nigeria study China’s history, particularly its quest for industrialization and prosperity. He highlighted the role of Deng Xiaoping, who led China from 1976 and significantly contributed to China’s economic rise. Deng’s vision of a prosperous China played a pivotal role in guiding the nation toward economic success.

Deng’s approach included embracing a system of capitalism with Chinese characteristics, which he believed would allow talented individuals to emerge and contribute to the nation’s prosperity while maintaining stability and security within the country.

Drawing from China’s experiences, Nigeria can potentially find valuable lessons to advance its own path to development, economic growth, and prosperity.

Credit: NAN