The Federal Government of Nigeria is strengthening its strategic partnership with China to accelerate industrialisation and economic diversification.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, reaffirmed this commitment during a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, in Abuja.
She emphasized the long-standing diplomatic relations between both nations, which have spanned over five decades, and reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s dedication to leveraging China’s expertise in key sectors such as electric vehicle production, digital technology, renewable energy, and agriculture.
Acknowledging China’s vital contributions to Nigeria’s infrastructure, particularly in road and railway development, Odumegwu-Ojukwu urged Beijing to grant Nigeria the same trade tariff exemptions it has extended to 33 other African nations.
She also noted the growing cultural ties between both countries, highlighting the increasing interest of Nigerian universities in offering Chinese language studies.
With bilateral trade exceeding $21 billion last year, Ambassador Yu Dunhai reaffirmed China’s commitment to deepening economic cooperation. He also pointed to financial agreements such as the recently renewed $2 billion currency swap deal and reiterated China’s support for Nigeria’s bid to join the G-20.
As both nations renew their economic commitments, their partnership is expected to drive technological advancement, infrastructure development, and sustainable growth, benefiting their citizens.
