Nigeria and China have committed to strengthening bilateral relations with renewed emphasis on trade, investment, infrastructure development and emerging areas such as artificial intelligence and the digital economy.
The spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa noted in a statement that the commitment was made when the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, received the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Abuja.
The Chinese Envoy congratulated Ambassador Enikanolaiye on his appointment and expressed confidence in working closely with him to further deepen the long-standing relationship between both countries.
Discussions at the meeting reviewed the strong bilateral ties between Nigeria and China, anchored on mutual respect, equality and a shared commitment to development.
Both sides explored opportunities to strengthen the Nigeria–China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership through increased cooperation in trade and investment, infrastructure, industrialisation, energy, agriculture, education and people-to-people exchanges.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to “the One-China Policy and commended China for its continued support towards Nigeria’s economic transformation agenda under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
He highlighted the benefits of China’s zero-tariff policy for eligible Nigerian exports, noting that” it offers opportunities to expand the country’s presence in the Chinese market, enhance value addition and create more jobs for Nigerians.”
According to Ebienfa, the Chinese Ambassador said the zero-tariff initiative had already produced significant results.
“Following the introduction of the Zero Tariff Policy, the volume of export to China from Nigeria has witnessed over 88 per cent increase,” Ambassador Yu said.
The Chinese Envoy also conveyed the goodwill of the Government and people of China and reiterated Beijing’s readiness to deepen practical cooperation with Nigeria across priority sectors.
He further urged Nigeria to work towards becoming a founding member of the World Artificial Intelligence Organization following the country’s participation at the inaugural meeting of the global body.
Responding, Ambassador Enikanolaiye said the proposal would be brought “to the attention of the relevant government agencies for consideration and appropriate advice.”
Both countries agreed to sustain high-level political consultations, broaden mutually beneficial economic engagement and explore new areas of collaboration in science and technology, the digital economy, as well as regional peace and security.
The meeting comes as Nigeria and China celebrate the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to advancing a strategic partnership that delivers tangible benefits for their peoples.
