The Federal Government of Nigeria is seeking China’s support to diversify its economy, with a focus on industrialization. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this known during a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, in Abuja. She emphasized Nigeria’s long-standing relationship with China and the importance of strengthening economic ties under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The minister highlighted key areas where Nigeria needs Chinese collaboration, including electric vehicle production, digital technology, renewable energy, and agriculture. She acknowledged China’s contributions to Nigeria’s infrastructure, particularly in roads and railways, and stressed the need to modernize the power sector and ports to attract investment. She also called for greater cultural exchange, especially in language education for Nigerian youth.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu urged China to remove trade tariffs on Nigerian exports, as it has done for 33 other African countries. She emphasized that deeper economic cooperation would benefit both nations and align with Nigeria’s goal of fostering stronger bilateral ties.
In response, Ambassador Yu Dunhai reaffirmed China’s commitment to its partnership with Nigeria, describing the country as a key strategic ally. He noted that trade between both nations surpassed $21 billion last year, with Nigeria’s exports making up over 25%. He also highlighted China’s role in infrastructure projects like road development, railway modernization, and the Lekki Sea Port, while pointing to a $2 billion currency swap agreement aimed at boosting financial cooperation.
As Nigeria deepens its engagement with China, concerns remain about the balance of trade and the long-term benefits of these agreements. Will increased collaboration lead to sustainable industrial growth, or will Nigeria continue to rely on imports? The success of this partnership will depend on how well both nations translate commitments into tangible economic gains.
