The Nigerian government on Thursday reaffirmed its commitment to the one-China policy, saying it does not recognize Taiwan as an independent territory.
In a statement dispatched to all federal ministries, departments, and agencies, the government said it recognizes that Beijing remains the only seat of the government representing the whole China and Taiwan is an inalienable part of its territory.
In effect, Nigerian leader Muhammadu Buhari had directed that the term "Republic of China" (Taiwan) shall not be used in official communications and pronouncements in Nigeria, according to the statement by the office of the secretary to the Nigerian government.
"And all official and private trips by the government officials to Taiwan must be cleared by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation," said the statement.
The statement further reiterated the Nigerian government's drive to strengthen and deepen the bilateral relationship between itself and China.