“Sule and Ganduje Turn to Aso Rock for Respite During Nasarawa Governorship Tribunal Proceedings”

….Sule’s Relocation to Abuja Fuels Speculation of Impending Tribunal Verdict

In a dramatic turn of events, Governor Sule of Nasarawa State, facing uncertainty over his governorship following the adoption of written addresses by the Nasarawa governorship election tribunal, has reportedly sought refuge in the nation’s capital, Abuja.

Sources reveal that he has enlisted the support of seasoned politician Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje in a bid to secure a favorable outcome at the tribunal.

Governor Sule, formerly a prominent industrialist, has been engaging in high-profile meetings with influential politicians under the guise of investment discussions. This series of meetings is seen by pundits as a calculated move to garner support and influence the tribunal’s decision in his favor.

As the tribunal awaits its crucial ruling, the presence of Sule and Ganduje in Aso Rock adds intrigue to the unfolding political drama, leaving many to wonder if this collaboration will provide the soft landing the embattled governor seeks. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.

“Nasarawa GEPT: Agabi Urges Tribunal to Rely on Shared, Legitimate Evidence Accepted by All Parties”

… BVAS,IREV primary source of conducting elections

In a remarkable turn of events, Chief Dr. Kanu Godwin Agabi, the counsel for the petitioners, People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and David Emmanuel Ombugadu said both the petitioners and respondents in the ongoing proceedings voiced unanimous agreement on the unparalleled reliability of BVAS IREV as the instrument of choice for election integrity.

Agabi urged the tribunal to place unwavering trust in this mutually endorsed evidence, emphasizing its pivotal role in the case.

Agabi highlighted that the BVAS IREV, which served as the primary source of accreditation and results uploads during the election, was submitted by the INEC Directorate of ICT. He fervently urged the tribunal to prioritize these reliable documents in their judgment.

Furthermore, the counsel emphasized the significance of Form ECA8S, the polling units’ results, as the most dependable ones. He urged the court to refer to Form EC8AS, EC8Bs, EC8Cs, and EC8D in case of any contradictions or conflicts in figures, giving precedence to EC8AS for extracting valid judgments.

One notable point raised was the absence of a cross petition from the petitioners. Agabi argued that this indicated the petitioners’ lack of new issues to raise and instead focused solely on defending their victory without presenting any form of defense against the petition.

In cases where both parties raised concerns about vote reduction, Agabi asserted that the tribunal should refer to the universally accepted Form EC8AS from BVAS IREV.

Concluding his appeals, Agabi made a passionate plea for the tribunal to consider these arguments, asserting that David Emmanuel Ombugadu of PDP was the authentic winner of the elections and should be declared as such.

In his final remarks, Agabi called on the respondents’ counsel to graciously concede defeat in the spirit of sportsmanship.

In response to these appeals, Chairman of the Tribunal, Justice Ezekiel Ajayi, acknowledged that the tribunal had taken note of all the prayers. He subsequently adjourned the sitting to a date that will be communicated to the parties involved for the final judgment.

Edo Deputy Governor celebrates wife’s 46th birthday

With a poetic expression of love, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Comrade Philip Shaibu has poured accollades on his wife to mark her 46th birthday.


Comrade Shaibu wrote about Mrs Maryann Shaibu on Friday:


Happy birthday, my ALOWENS of the UNIVERSE.


My Great, Pleasing, Alluring and Delightful wife, (Maryann Shaibu) today clocked 46 years old on earth. Your existence on earth has brought sunshine to me, our family and many other lives whom you have touched in many positive ways.


At 46, your existence has been nothing short of positive impacts in everything you have been a part of. You have distinct and empowered yourself as a great woman of influence because of your demeanour and cheerful heart.


May God continue to sustain the gift of smiles and happiness that you are known for and the eyes of the wicked will never see you In Jesus’ name, AMEN.


Happy birthday, my SWEETHEART

Aleghe celebrates Edo Deputy Governor’s wife at 46


A popular security consultant and political strategist Dr. Sunnie Aleghe alongside his wife has sent encomiums to the wife of the Deputy Governor of Edo State Mrs. Maryam Shaibu to celebrate her 46th birthday.

In statement on Friday, Aleghe wrote: “Today marks the birthday of a phenomenal woman, the wife of the Deputy Governor of Edo State, and we’re honoured to share a tribute to her on this special occasion.


“Mrs. Maryam Shaibu is a quintessential, and a virtuous woman who radiates elegance, grace, peace, and kindness. She is a woman of substance, who has selflessly dedicated herself to supporting her husband in his political career, while also making a positive impact in her carrier as a chartered accountant, business mogul, and the lives of those around her.


“On this occasion of her 46th birthday, we celebrate her unwavering commitment to religious and family values, her compassion towards the less fortunate, and her remarkable leadership qualities.


“Mrs. Shaibu has dedicated herself to empowering the people of Edo State, especially women and children, through her various initiatives. Her passion for promoting good health, education, and economic empowerment for women and girls has made a significant impact in the state.


“As she celebrates another year of life today, we want to affirm to her that her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Her unwavering commitment to humanity is appreciated by all of us, and we hope she continues to inspire us with her selfless service.”


The couple wished Mrs. Shaibu, a very happy birthday and many more years of impacting lives positively. “May God’s grace continue to guide and protect you, and keep you happy always,” they added.

AMAC Chairman Rebukes Baseless Rumors Amid Controversy Over FCT Governance

The Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) has taken notice of attempts by certain individuals to create a rift between the Council’s Executive Chairman, Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, and the hardworking FCT Minister, His Excellency Chief Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, and indirectly, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

In recent days, unfounded rumors have been circulating, suggesting that in the wake of the Presidential Election Petition Court’s judgment in favor of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, some unidentified Abuja natives are contemplating seeking a Federal High Court order compelling the Nigerian Federal Government to allow the FCT to elect a Governor and 3 Senators, among other state-like privileges.

According to these baseless claims, highlighted by an alleged lawyer on social media, FCT natives plan to file a motion seeking a court order restraining Chief Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike from serving as an FCT minister until the case is resolved.

The AMAC would have disregarded these rumors as nonsensical, but they have gained unwarranted attention. Therefore, we find it necessary to set the record straight and expose these rumor-mongers.

Since his election in February 2022, Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, the Executive Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), has been dedicated to delivering democratic benefits to his constituents, despite opposition attempts to question his election. Hon. Maikalangu, a law-abiding citizen who firmly believes in the judicial process, has consistently promoted peace. His victory in the AMAC election was confirmed by the FCT Area Council Election Appeal Tribunal in October 2022.

There is no reasonable basis for involving Chairman Maikalangu in unfounded rumors suggesting that he would abandon his role as AMAC Chairman to administer the FCT as an administrator for any reason.

The judgment of the Presidential Election Petition Court has been rendered, and dissatisfied parties have expressed their intention to approach the Supreme Court, which is the appropriate avenue for law-abiding citizens who respect the principle of res judicata.

It is surprising that an alleged lawyer would propagate these rumors, indirectly inciting violence, unrest, and anarchy by proposing the removal of an FCT Minister who underwent the requisite processes before being sworn in.

It is essential to note that at no point did Honorable Maikalangu endorse any group’s attempt to obtain a temporary court order directing him to administer the FCT as an administrator while awaiting the alleged hearing and resolution of a speculative case seeking FCT statehood.

Those who are determined to pit Chairman Maikalangu against the diligent FCT Minister, Chief Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, and by extension, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, should cease their efforts. Chairman Maikalangu is not associated with such a scheme and will not endorse any actions that jeopardize peace and security in the FCT.

Recently, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, made history by appointing an FCT native, Hon. Zaphaniah Bitrus Jisalo, as Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs. This milestone has been celebrated and reflects the support of the FCT and AMAC for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The people of the FCT and AMAC wholeheartedly support President Tinubu’s agenda and have no intention of disrupting a peaceful and inclusive government with any form of agitation. Until the constitution is amended to grant the FCT state-like privileges, such as electing a Governor and 3 Senators, rumor-mongers should refrain from attempting to create divisions among key figures in the government.

“Agabi Asserts PDP Candidate as the Winner, Citing Original Polling Unit Results (Form EC8As) from Trustworthy Sources”

The Nasarawa State Election Tribunal witnessed heated proceedings as lawyers representing the petitioner and respondents clashed over the adoption of written addresses. The petitioner, represented by Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi (SAN), presented their case on September 8, 2023, and filed it on September 9, 2023. The respondent’s counsel countered with strong arguments and observations.

Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi argued that the precedent set by higher courts should guide the tribunal’s decision and emphasized that subpoenaed witnesses should not be allowed to testify under oath. He also stressed the importance of polling unit results (Form EC8As), considering them as the original results from reliable sources. He called on the tribunal to focus on certified documents, pointing out discrepancies between Form EC8As and EC8Bs and asserted that the petitioner, the PDP, should be declared the winner.

Agabi also questioned the absence of a cross-petition from the respondents, suggesting they had no substantial case. Tensions escalated during arguments, but the judges’ records ultimately favored the petitioner, as the respondents’ sincerity came into question.

The first respondent, INEC, represented by Issiaka Mohammed Dikko (SAN), challenged the petitioner’s claims, labeling their alleged victory as unrealistic and lacking substantial evidence.

Chief Wale Olanipekun (SAN), representing the second respondent, Engr. A.A. Sule, pointed out various objections raised during the petitioner’s case and requested the tribunal to dismiss the petition due to insufficient legal backing for the petitioner’s claims. He noted the absence of proper witness testimonies and inadmissible evidence, including the BVAS, and emphasized that the petitioner failed to mention any polling units where they received 25% of the votes.

Dr. Hassan Mohammed Liman, representing the third respondent, APC, supported the objections to witnesses and urged the tribunal to dismiss the entire petition. He adopted the second respondent’s appeal and highlighted the margin of lead declared in favor of A.A. Sule by Form EC8B and EC8D. Liman argued that the petitioner relied on allegations rather than facts, effectively undermining their own case.

The Nasarawa State Election Tribunal now faces the challenging task of weighing these arguments and evidence to make a fair and just decision regarding the election results. The legal battle continues as all parties await the tribunal’s final ruling.

“Agabi Urges Tribunal’s Attention on Certified Documents Highlighting Discrepancies in Forms EC8A and EC8B”

The petitioner, represented by Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi (SAN), presented their case on September 8, 2023, and filed it on September 9, 2023 has urged the court to focus on the certified documents before it showing descripancies between form EC8A and form EC8B.

Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi on Thursday during the adoption of final adresses argued that the precedent set by higher courts should guide the tribunal’s decision and emphasized that subpoenaed witnesses should not be allowed to testify under oath. He also stressed the importance of polling unit results (Form EC8As), considering them as the original results from reliable sources. He called on the tribunal to focus on certified documents, pointing out discrepancies between Form EC8As and EC8Bs and asserted that the petitioner, the PDP, should be declared the winner.

Agabi also questioned the absence of a cross-petition from the respondents, suggesting they had no substantial case. Tensions escalated during arguments, but the judges’ records ultimately favored the petitioner, as the respondents’ sincerity came into question.

The first respondent, INEC, represented by Issiaka Mohammed Dikko (SAN), challenged the petitioner’s claims, labeling their alleged victory as unrealistic and lacking substantial evidence.

Chief Wale Olanipekun (SAN), representing the second respondent, Engr. A.A. Sule, pointed out various objections raised during the petitioner’s case and requested the tribunal to dismiss the petition due to insufficient legal backing for the petitioner’s claims. He noted the absence of proper witness testimonies and inadmissible evidence, including the BVAS, and emphasized that the petitioner failed to mention any polling units where they received 25% of the votes.

Dr. Hassan Mohammed Liman, representing the third respondent, APC, supported the objections to witnesses and urged the tribunal to dismiss the entire petition. He adopted the second respondent’s appeal and highlighted the margin of lead declared in favor of A.A. Sule by Form EC8B and EC8D. Liman argued that the petitioner relied on allegations rather than facts, effectively undermining their own case.

The Nasarawa State Election Tribunal now faces the challenging task of weighing these arguments and evidence to make a fair and just decision regarding the election results. The legal battle continues as all parties await the tribunal’s final ruling.

PEPT Judgement: CSO Lauds DSS, Others for Averting Crises

A national rights group, Rising Up for a United Nigeria (RUN) has commended the Department of State Security for its professionalism especially in the areas of intelligence gathering and coordination with sister security agencies which averted plots by some misguided Nigerians intent on disrupting the PEPT judgment.

Recall that RUN had previously raised an alarm, alerting security agencies of plots by the organised labour and other sinister groups to disrupt the proceedings of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal and bully the judges into siding with their candidates against the dictates of the law.

RUN in a statement signed by its Convener, Amb. Solomon Adodo and widely to journalists at a Press Conference in Abuja, expressed satisfaction with the level of intelligence the DSS was able to gather and the efficient coordination with other security agencies which guaranteed peace during and even after the PEPT pronounced their judgment.

The statement read in part, “the DSS has shown how professional they are in the discharge of their duties. Their ability to heed to early warnings and respond appropriately is the apogee of professionalism. We are grateful that the DSS were scrupulous in gathering intelligence while also heeding our warning and swung into action, frustrating the plans of the enemies and ensuring smooth proceedings that affirmed the mandate Nigerians freely gave President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The group also commended the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu for showing up at the PEPT venue, “to send a clear message to mischief makers that there is zero tolerance for lawlessness and miscreants hiding under civil protests to unleash mayhem on the country for their selfish gains”.

RUN equally lauded Nigeria’s Service Chiefs for their efforts in maintaining the territorial integrity of Nigeria despite the multidimensional challenges that have plagued the country, describing it as patriotic.

According to the statement, “the current Service Chiefs have demonstrated uncommon loyalty and professionalism in the conduct of their duties. The speed with which they have neutralised threats to Nigeria’s territorial integrity deserves a standing ovation. This has sent a clear warning to those hiding under the infamous Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to incite violence that Nigeria is no longer a theatre of violence and destruction. We urge them to sustain the tempo and deal a decisive blow on any and all insurrections within the country in line with the standing orders given them by Mr. President”.

Following the momentous participation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the just concluded G 20 Summit in India, RUN and Nigeria youths at large are confident that the gains recorded during the all important global event will accelerate Nigeria’s development as the country strives to make lasting impressions on the global arena under the indefatigable leadership of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“From what we are seeing, this is a new vista for the Nigerian youths. President Tinubu has always been pro-youth and with the gains recorded in the just concluded Summit of global leaders of repute where ideas and opportunities were discussed, we are certain increased investments that will directly impact the youths and the country at large”. “In the United Arab Emirates, Mr. President also made significant gains for the country by ensuring that the travel ban on Nigerians was lifted and resumption of flights to Nigeria by Etihad and Emirates. These are major successes that show the President is determined to put the country on the path of accelerated growth and as such he should be given all the support particularly from the youth.” the statement added.

Seize opportunities for better future of Chinese science fiction

By Liu Cixin

I ventured into the realm of science fiction creation, deeply inspired by the wonders of science.

I can still vividly recall the exhilaration I felt when reading the news of the first landing by humans on the moon in my childhood. Over the years, I have imagined countless scenarios of Chinese astronauts walking in space. Now, when I see the frequent launches of the Shenzhou spaceships, and watch Chinese astronauts on space missions on TV, I am occasionally overwhelmed by a surreal feeling – are these truly happening?

In recent years, China’s science fiction industry embraced rapid development and received wide attention. This couldn’t have happened without the overall progress of society, including advancements in the aerospace industry and the wide application of Internet technologies. We are amid rapid modernization, industrialization and digitalization, with opportunities and hopes, as well as pressure and challenges. We marvel at the wonders of science, and expect science and technology to bring a better life to human beings. These all provide a fertile ground for the prosperity of the science fiction industry.

Science, the source of strength for science fiction

Science fiction is an outcome of the modern scientific and technological revolution. In the early 19th century, scientific and technological advancement promoted industrial revolutions and triggered people’s imagination and aspirations for the future. That was how science fiction literature came into being.

As mankind entered the age of electricity from the age of steam between the 1920s and 1960s, the progress of science and technology once again demonstrated the overwhelming power to change the world. The revolution in physics, represented by the theory of relativity and quantum mechanics, has brought people whole new horizons. People’s admiration for the power of science and the longing for the future reached a climax during this period, leading to a flourishing era for science fiction works.

Based on science, science fiction creates a sci-fi universe different from the real world. Although science fiction writers imagine the future worlds, they aim not to predict them. It doesn’t really matter whether a science fiction book’s predictions come true in the future when evaluating its quality. Many science fiction writers, including myself, intentionally choose settings that are unlikely to be realized to tell stories, and use novel perspectives to show the wonders and marvels of science, thus allowing people to experience the beauty of science.

After 200 years of development, countless science fiction works have already envisioned the future in various ways, and it is sometimes questioned whether science fiction will continue to be creative in the future. In my opinion, the creativity of science fiction is infinite. Even traditional themes can be revitalized, depending on how you portray them.

For example, the classic science fiction short story “A Walk in the Sun” depicts a sole survivor of a terrible crash landing on the moon, who must keep walking continually on the surface of the moon to stay in the sunlight with a wing-like solar panel, in order to stay alive. This is a straightforward narrative with a classic moon landing theme, yet it is amazingly well-written.

In my perspective, as China’s aerospace technology continues to advance, it would be a big hit to use a “micro-realism” approach to depict how an engineering team builds a space power station and a lunar base.

Moreover, with progress in science, new fields will constantly emerge, offering new themes for science fiction. Highly developed modern scientific fields, such as physics, cosmology, and molecular biology, show us a more magical, broader, and more unpredictable universe and nature, which contain rich resources for science fiction creation. However, they also make basic science today more complicated in theory and more difficult in mathematical expression, which is hard for non-professionals to understand. How to fully tap into these resources is a great challenge for science fiction writers, and also a hope for the development of science fiction literature.

In the face of the unknown, science fiction should always present fresh, original and surprising concepts to keep readers interested. To achieve this, science fiction writers should always maintain a young mindset, keeping their imagination in sync with the times.

To release beauty from scientific equations

Expanding people’s imagination is an important mission of science fiction. The well-known “Gravity,” a very pure science fiction movie, shows us that for science fiction creation, the most important thing for the creators is to have a poetic feeling towards the universe. Good science fiction works present to us a drop of water from a perspective of the vast ocean, bringing people out of their limited vision to experience a broader world beyond reality.

Science is the source of strength for science fiction, while the beauty of science is often confined within scientific equations. Ordinary people need to make tremendous efforts to catch a glimpse of its brilliance. But once it is presented, its impact and power of purification to our soul are immense, which is difficult to be achieved by other genres of literature. Science fiction is a bridge to the beauty of science, releasing this beauty from equations and presenting it to the public.

The success of science fiction largely depends on the attraction of their mind-blowing imagination. The Big Bang theory of modern cosmology is spectacular and awe-inspiring. The long journey of life evolution is twisted and romantic. The poetic view of spacetime in general relativity, the magical microcosm in quantum physics… The worldview revealed by science is far beyond our imagination. How can writers present such beauty of science?

“Macro-detail” is a technique exclusive to science fiction literature. Although every narrative needs details, the treatment of details has evolved in science fiction. I can imagine a short story—I will call it “Singularity Fireworks”—which describes a group of super-consciousnesses for whom the Big Bang is nothing more than a firework display. The work uses a few words to depict the talks and feelings between two entities before and after the firework, yet it encompasses the history of the universe since the Big Bang in spacetime, unfolding a vision of a supra-cosmos beyond our universe. In my opinion, this kind of “macro-detail” best embodies the characteristics and advantages of science fiction literature.

Since engaging in science fiction creation, I have been looking for story resources from scientific and technological advancements, endeavoring to express the direct and tangible connection between the insignificant human and the grand universe based on scientific principles. In the beginning, the universe was smaller than an atom, and everything was one. This determines the natural connection between the minuscule parts of the universe and the grand whole. Even though the universe has expanded to today’s scale, I believe this connection still exists, and the evolution and changes of the universe are closely related to the lives and destinies of every human being. When I create stories, I always endeavor to envisage several scenarios of the specific connection between humans and the universe, and turn this imagination into captivating and uplifting tales.

Of course, science fiction does not always depict the future and imagination; it also encompasses the present and reality. Taking my novel “The Three-Body Problem” as an example. The first part portrays a fictional past with a strong sense of reality, in order to spark readers’ imaginations. The second part is a long journey from reality to imagination. The third part is a pure science fiction novel with a prominent “science fiction fan” vibe. Starting from reality to a distant and ethereal world is a typical structure of traditional science fiction, and also a narrative mode that Chinese science fiction readers are accustomed to, from reality to the future.

To seize the chance for innovative development

Science fiction movies have had a significant impact on me. The way I tell stories and construct visual imagery are both influenced by science fiction movies. Images are powerful, and many imaginative concepts in science fiction can only be portrayed through visual means. In this regard, films have a significant edge over printed words.

However, due to the low publishing cost and the relatively fixed readership, authors have more room for creation and can explore more innovative ideas and storytelling techniques. The production cost of science fiction films is much higher, as they need to fight for a wider and more diverse audience’s attention. Films need to consider audience acceptability of innovative forms and content, and find a balance point in artistic expression.

In recent years, both science fiction literature and films have played to their respective strengths. The adaptation of some science fiction novels into films and TV series has brought science fiction to a wider audience, driving the growth of the science fiction industry. To further develop science fiction literature today, efforts should be made to expand the pool of Chinese science fiction writers, so that more talents and works will emerge. The development of science fiction films and TV series requires an increase in talent and experience reserves, providing more opportunities for the new generation of screenwriters, directors, and producers to participate in creation. Additionally, it is crucial to strengthen international cooperation and accumulate more mature production experience.

Promoting the development of science fiction raises new requirements for literary theory and reviews. For example, the technique of “macro-detail” and other science fiction creation methods urgently need theoretical refinement to form a conscious expressive technique. Science fiction criticism also needs to keep pace with the times, breaking free from the constraints of using an outdated perspective to view new works and phenomena. Innovative theories and sharp, vibrant comments can certainly drive the development of science fiction creation.

Science fiction works contribute to cultivating the science fiction imagination of young people, stimulating their creativity and innovation abilities. Science fiction education can be properly introduced into school education, by adding science fiction content to textbooks, or cultivating children’s interest through online science fiction creations. It is believed that a considerable number of young readers and viewers will enjoy science fiction, thereby initiating a conscious exploration of science fiction and science.

Chinese science fiction has shown great momentum and potential. We must seize this opportunity to make the industry stronger.

 (The article is compiled by Dong Yang based on an interview with Liu Cixin.)

Liu Cixin was born in Yangquan, north China’s Shanxi province in 1963. He has a bachelor’s degree and is a senior engineer, as well as a science fiction writer and a member of the China Writers Association. His representative works include the novels “Supernova Era,” “Ball Lightning,” and “The Three-Body Problem” trilogy, as well as short fiction such as “The Wandering Earth,” “The Village Teacher,” and “Full Spectrum Barrage Jamming.” “The Three-Body Problem” trilogy is widely regarded as a milestone in Chinese science fiction literature.

PLA support base in Djibouti pursues peace, cooperation, friendship

By Zhang Zhiwen, Yan Yunming, Huang Weixin, Hou Lulu, People’s Daily

A ceremony marking the entry of troops into the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) support base in Djibouti was held at the base’s barracks on August 1, 2017, marking the completion and official operation of the base.

The establishment of the PLA Djibouti base was a decision made by the two countries after friendly negotiations.

In accordance with UN Security Council resolutions, China has deployed vessels to the Gulf of Aden and the waters off the Somali coast on escort missions since 2008. During the process, Chinese officers and men encountered difficulties in replenishing food and fuel, and Djibouti offered logistical support in multiple instances.

The construction of the support base enables China to better fulfill its international obligations such as escorts and humanitarian rescue in the Gulf of Aden and the waters off the Somali coast. It also contributes to the economic and social development of Djibouti and enables China to make new and greater contributions to safeguarding peace and stability in Africa and the world.

Over the past six years, the capabilities of the support base have steadily improved. The base has provided efficient and professional support for escort fleets and Chinese peacekeeping troops deployed to South Sudan, Mali and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The construction and growth of the support base has strongly aided the Chinese military’s escort missions in the Gulf of Aden and peacekeeping operations in Africa, while making prominent contributions to regional peace and stability and safeguarding international maritime channels.

The Chinese support base plays an important role in maintaining regional trade flows, Aboubaker Omar Hadi, chairman of the Djibouti Ports and Free Zones Authority, told People’s Daily.

The PLA support base promotes mutual trust and understanding, and conveys a message of peace and friendship.

Since its establishment, the base has held over 10 joint exercises and drills with Djiboutian and other foreign troops in Djibouti. It has also participated in more than 200 bilateral and multilateral exchange activities, and held five multinational basketball and football tournaments. This has continuously advanced bilateral and multilateral exchanges and showcased the open and confident image of the Chinese military.

Since 2019, the PLA Support Base Hospital in Djibouti has partnered with the general hospital of Djibouti’s military for paired assistance. So far, China has sent over 100 medical experts to Djibouti, assisted with 45 surgeries there and held a series of bilateral clinical skills training sessions.

The base has become an important platform for medical exchanges, said Feng Dan, a medic who has joined multiple exchange activities. “We are very proud to be doctors at the base,” Feng told People’s Daily.

Fran, a military doctor at the Djibouti Military Hospital of the Djiboutian Republican Guard, said that China’s long-term medical assistance is important for Djibouti and it is hoped that there will be further exchanges with the Chinese side to improve local medical capabilities.

Li Zhaohui, head of the PLA support base, noted that the base hopes to strengthen its communication with Djibouti and foreign troops in Djibouti, constantly enhance practical cooperation with them, fulfill China’s international obligations, and work together with them to cope with security threats and challenges, so as to make greater contributions to regional peace and stability.

Teenagers are the future of Djibouti’s economic and social development, as well as the hope for the continuous friendship between China and Djibouti. In order to improve the teaching conditions in local schools, the support base has established a regular education assistance mechanism with Djibouti, which conducts public welfare assistance activities.

In January this year, the support base donated computers, projectors, desks and chairs, sports equipment and stationery to three primary schools in the Balbala district of Djibouti City. It was the support base’s third round of public welfare assistance to local schools.

“The new desks, chairs, and equipment have made our school more beautiful,” said Hassan, a student at the PK12 Primary School in Djibouti City, carrying his new blue backpack with a happy smile on his face.

Minister of National Education and Vocational Training of Djibouti Moustapha Mohamed Mahamoud said that with the help of the PLA support base, the teaching environment of local schools has been improved, providing children with better conditions for growth.

“I’m grateful to Chinese doctors and nurses,” said Mohamed Ali Ahmed, a 66-year-old man from Djibouti, who had his cataract cured at the PLA support base after having had the problem for six years.

In December 2019, the support base kicked off a 25-day medical campaign in cooperation with Djibouti’s Ministry of Health, which offered free cataract surgery for over 100 local patients including Ahmed. The campaign received widespread praise from the local community.

Ten medical staff members of the support base were awarded with the Independence Day Medal signed by President Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti.

Saleh Banoita Tourab, then secretary-general of the Ministry of Health in Djibouti, noted that the Chinese military doctors have brought great relief to local cataract patients, and their act of compassion will be forever remembered by the people of Djibouti.

In 2019, Djibouti experienced a rare heavy rainfall, which caused flooding and resulted in casualties. In response to Djibouti’s request, the PLA support base dispatched troops to provide assistance to the affected population, and thousands of people received timely help.

Idle, a resident of Djibouti, and his family and friends were severely affected by the flood. “The house of a friend of mine was almost swallowed by the flood, and we felt desperate,” he said. Fortunately, Chinese soldiers arrived and helped them with drainage and dredging. “We are grateful to the Chinese military,” Idle said.

Since its establishment, the support base has been committed to assisting in the local economic and social development of Djibouti through various initiatives such as public welfare education, medical services, and disaster relief. These practical actions have earned widespread praise from the government and people of Djibouti.

“When I first arrived in Djibouti in 2018, there were few locals who could speak Chinese,” said Zhang Daqian, a PLA officer who has been stationed at the base for five years. He told People’s Daily that whenever the soldiers go out on missions nowadays, local people would warmly greet them in Chinese and give thumbs-up to them.

“This change is a testament to the unwavering dedication of Chinese soldiers who have been serving the local community. It inspires us and motivates us to continue our efforts,” Zhang said.