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The federal government on Thursday emphasized the importance of enhanced bilateral cooperation with China to further Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts.
The Minister of State for Foreign Afairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this call in a statement after a visit to the ministry by the Chinese ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunham.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu identified China as one of Nigeria’s top trade partners, highlighting a longstanding history of economic collaboration between the two nations.
She expressed optimism that China’s involvement would bolster the enduring relationship established for decades and support President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’, aimed at revitalizing the nation’s economy through diversification.
The minister also emphasized Nigeria’s dedication to enhancing cultural ties with China, noting a growing interest among Nigerian youth in learning the Chinese language.
"We anticipate ongoing support from China, and in return, we shall facilitate multilateral cooperation. In alignment with President Tinubu’s goal to industrialize Nigeria, we seek China’s partnership to help set up assembly plants for electric vehicles.
Additionally, we aim to collaborate on digital communication, renewable energy, digital technology, and agriculture to address food insecurity, ensuring that aid reaches the most vulnerable populations," she stated.
She highlighted the necessity for the Chinese government to lift trade tariffs applied to Nigeria, similar to measures taken for 33 other African nations, to foster people-to-people interactions.
Ambassador Yu acknowledged the strengthening ties between Nigeria and China, commending Nigeria as a significant and strategic ally.
He remarked that Tinubu’s inaugural visit to China and his participation in the Forum of China-Africa Cooperation greatly enhanced the bilateral relationship.
Yu pointed out that Nigeria and China have cooperated on various projects, including road construction, railway modernization, power, industrial parks, and the Lekki Sea Port.
He noted that trade volume between the two countries surpassed $21 billion in 2024, with Nigerian exports to China exceeding 25 percent.
He explained that the manufacturing sector is crucial for industrialization, and the recently renewed $2 billion currency swap in financial cooperation is expected to bolster collaboration and promote bilateral trade and investment.
"We maintain a comprehensive strategic partnership with Nigeria. China desires for Nigeria to assume a significant role on the global stage. We want Nigeria to join the G-20. These developments will create further opportunities for cooperation between China and Nigeria. China has consistently provided grants to numerous African nations without imposing conditions," Yu stated.
