Despite being continents apart, Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China share striking similarities in the vastness and dynamism of their economies, their abundant natural and human resources, and the rich diversity of their cultures. These shared strengths continue to shape their relationship, with China emerging as a critical partner for Nigeria’s development, especially in the areas of infrastructure, trade, and energy.
In the past year, bilateral trade between the two nations reached $22.6 billion, a figure that Nigeria’s government believes can be exceeded through deeper, mutually beneficial cooperation. President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his commitment to enhancing relations with China, especially in infrastructure and other key sectors.
“China has been instrumental in Nigeria’s infrastructural development, particularly in the transportation sector,” President Tinubu said. “The construction of railways, roads, and various public infrastructures has greatly benefited from China’s involvement.”
As Nigeria advances its ambitious infrastructure agenda, the administration is looking to sustain and expand these partnerships. Key projects such as the Ibadan-Abuja-Kaduna-Kano section of the Lagos-Ibadan Railway, and initiatives like LAGRIDE—a joint venture between the Lagos State Government and CIG Motors—signal the growing role of China in Nigeria’s transportation sector. The LAGRIDE initiative, in particular, is set to launch a new era of e-mobility in Africa.
“Transport infrastructure is a fundamental agent of development,” President Tinubu continued, emphasizing its role in boosting economic activities, creating jobs, and unlocking new investment opportunities across Nigeria.
In a statement, President Tinubu commended China’s President Xi Jinping for his visionary leadership, which has positioned China as a global economic powerhouse. Drawing parallels between their roles, Tinubu highlighted the challenges and rewards of leading major economies and noted the bold reforms his administration has introduced to set Nigeria on a path of sustainable growth.
President Tinubu also expressed his appreciation for President Xi’s invitation to attend the upcoming Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), expressing confidence that his participation will further deepen bilateral relations between the two nations.
With growing collaborations across key sectors, Nigeria and China are poised to build on their long-standing partnership, with infrastructure development at the forefront of their mutual efforts to achieve shared prosperity.
