Nigeria and China have agreed to enhance their collaboration in the Belt and Road Initiative, human resources development, and nuclear energy. This decision was made following a meeting between the leaders of both nations on Tuesday, as announced by a government spokesperson.
China, Nigeria’s largest bilateral lender, has provided loans amounting to $5 billion as of the end of March, according to Nigeria’s Debt Management Office. This financial relationship underscores the significant economic ties between the two countries.
Diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China have been maintained for over 50 years. These ties were further solidified in 2018 when both nations became partners in the Belt and Road Initiative, leading to substantial infrastructure projects in Nigeria, including a deep-sea port and rail lines.
President Bola Tinubu emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “This comprehensive strategic partnership should result in robust development, stability, and security in the West African sub-region.” His remarks highlight the broader regional benefits anticipated from this collaboration.
This week, President Tinubu is attending the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in Beijing, where leaders from 50 African nations are gathered. The summit is seen as a pivotal moment to strengthen China-Africa relations further.
During his visit, President Tinubu toured the Huawei Research Lab and secured a commitment from Huawei to establish a joint solar PV test lab in Nigeria. Additionally, another Chinese firm has pledged to set up an assembly plant for electric tricycles and provide training for Nigerians in technology and renewable energy development.