In a significant move to strengthen bilateral ties, Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to existing agreements with China. This came to light during a meeting between President Bola Tinubu and China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi, at the State House in Abuja.
The high-level meeting was attended by senior Nigerian officials, including the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and the Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, Mr. Joseph Tegbe. President Tinubu emphasized the importance of the relationship, stating that Nigeria and China have now entered a comprehensive strategic partnership. This partnership aims to foster a prosperous future, with both nations working together to build a high-level China-Nigeria community based on shared prosperity.
Strategic Goals: Economic Growth, Development, and Industrialisation
Mr. Joseph Tegbe, Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, highlighted that Nigeria’s partnership with China is focused on boosting economic growth and development. One of the primary objectives is addressing the trade imbalance between the two countries. Nigeria aims to transform its trade relations with China into a more substantial development partnership, with hopes of becoming a net-exporter to China by 2030.
Tegbe emphasized that the relationship is far beyond trade alone; it extends to comprehensive areas such as trade, investment, and infrastructure development. He remarked, “China has been a reliable partner, and Nigeria looks forward to deepening cooperation in the industrialization of the nation. Industrializing Nigeria means industrializing 25% of Africa, and a prosperous Nigeria is key to a prosperous Africa.”
China’s Role and Vision for Africa’s Future
During the meeting, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also lauded Nigeria’s role as a leading African power with global influence. Wang noted that Nigeria is a crucial member of the Global South and plays an irreplaceable role in Africa’s peace and development.
China’s continued focus on strengthening its partnership with Africa is evident. Wang emphasized that China views its relationship with Nigeria from a strategic, long-term perspective, pledging further collaboration on both countries’ vital issues and interests.
“We will continue to support each other in advancing development, and our cooperation will yield tangible benefits for both nations,” Wang Yi said.
The growing partnership between Nigeria and China marks an exciting chapter in both nations’ histories, one where collaboration in key sectors will set the stage for mutual prosperity.