There’s a Complex Mix of Historical Anxiety Wrapped Into Nigerians’ Concerns Over Chinese Loans

To get a sense of just how widespread the concern is in Nigeria over Chinese loans, head over to the Twitter page of popular comedian and actor Bright Okpocha, aka Basketmouth, where since last Thursday he’s pinned a semi-serious monologue decrying the risks of indebtedness to China

“Let’s look at the bright side,” he sarcastically tells his 2 million followers, “In the next ten years, the Chinese language will be our second language. I’ve always wanted to learn Chinese.”

  • Get a daily email packed with the latest China-Africa news and analysis.
  • Read exclusive insights on the key trends shaping China-Africa relations.
  • Full access to the News Feed that provides daily updates on Chinese engagement in Africa and throughout the Global South.

China, Africa and the Global South... find out what’s happening.

Subscribe today for unlimited access.

What is The China-Global South Project?

Independent

The China-Global South Project is passionately independent, non-partisan and does not advocate for any country, company or culture.

News

A carefully curated selection of the day’s most important China-Global South stories. Updated 24 hours a day by human editors. No bots, no algorithms.

Analysis

Diverse, often unconventional insights from scholars, analysts, journalists and a variety of stakeholders in the China-Global South discourse.

Networking

A unique professional network of China-Africa scholars, analysts, journalists and other practioners from around the world.