The Federal Government has called on China to support Nigeria's efforts in diversifying its economy, particularly in establishing electric vehicle (EV) assembly plants.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this appeal during a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, at the ministry. She highlighted China's longstanding role as one of Nigeria's largest trade partners and emphasized the need for collaboration in industrialization.
Strengthening Economic Ties
Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed that China's assistance would reinforce the existing strong ties between both nations while advancing President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes economic diversification.
"In line with President Tinubu's policy to industrialize Nigeria, we expect China's cooperation in establishing electric vehicle assembly plants to drive sustainable development," she stated.
The minister also reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to enhancing cultural relations with China, noting the increasing interest among Nigerian youth in learning the Chinese language.
"Many Nigerian universities are keen on offering Chinese as a course because of its growing importance in global trade," she added.
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Expanding Cooperation Beyond Trade
Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasized Nigeria's need for China's support in digital technology, renewable energy, and agriculture, particularly in tackling food insecurity.
"Government is interested in ensuring food reaches the poorest of the poor. We have established a separate Ministry of Livestock to address these concerns," she said.
She also urged China to remove trade tariffs for Nigeria, as it has done for 33 other African countries, to boost trade and people-to-people exchanges.
China Reaffirms Commitment to Nigeria
In response, Ambassador Yu Dunhai reaffirmed China's commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Nigeria.
"We have a comprehensive strategic partnership with Nigeria and want the country to play a bigger role on the international stage, including becoming a member of the G-20," he said.
Yu highlighted China's unconditional financial assistance to African nations, emphasizing China's significant contributions to road construction, railway modernization, power, industrial parks, and the Lekki Sea Port.
Boosting Bilateral Trade and Investment
He revealed that Nigeria-China trade volume surpassed $21 billion in 2024, with Nigeria's exports to China increasing by over 25%. He also noted that the renewed $2 billion currency swap agreement would further boost trade and investment between both nations.
President Tinubu's first official visit to China and participation in the Forum of China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) have further strengthened bilateral relations, paving the way for increased collaboration in manufacturing and industrialization.
