The Federal Government has urged China to support Nigeria’s economic diversification by establishing electric vehicle assembly plants.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this appeal after meeting with Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunham.
She emphasized the strong economic relationship between both nations, describing China as one of Nigeria’s largest trade partners.
Strengthening Economic Cooperation
Odumegwu-Ojukwu highlighted President Tinubu’s commitment to industrializing Nigeria through strategic partnerships that align with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
She stated that China’s support would further strengthen economic ties and drive Nigeria’s industrial growth through electric vehicle production.
The Minister also called for collaboration in digital technology, renewable energy, and agriculture to address Nigeria’s food insecurity challenges.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed the government’s commitment to ensuring food reaches the poorest citizens by establishing a Livestock Ministry.
Additionally, she urged China to remove trade tariffs for Nigeria, as granted to 33 other African countries.
She noted that tariff removal would enhance bilateral trade and promote cultural exchanges between Nigeria and China effectively.
China’s Commitment to Nigeria
Ambassador Yu reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening its comprehensive strategic partnership with Nigeria across various sectors.
He praised Nigeria’s increasing global relevance, supporting its bid for G-20 membership and participation in international diplomatic affairs.
Yu highlighted China’s investments in Nigeria, including road construction, railway modernization, power infrastructure, and the Lekki Deep Sea Port.
He revealed that trade volume between both nations surpassed $21 billion in 2024, reflecting growing economic cooperation and trust.
Nigeria’s exports to China increased by over 25% last year, signaling strengthened trade relations between the two countries.
Yu emphasized that the recently renewed $2 billion currency swap deal would further promote trade and financial cooperation.
He stressed that robust manufacturing partnerships would boost Nigeria’s industrial sector and stimulate sustainable economic growth.
China remains committed to offering financial grants to African nations without imposing conditions, fostering genuine development partnerships.
The Ambassador concluded by stating that President Tinubu’s visit to China further solidified the enduring bilateral relationship.
