The Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Joseph Tegbe, is leading efforts to deepen bilateral relations. During a high-level visit to China, he aims to strengthen ties between the two nations.
This visit aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which emphasizes fostering economic growth. The focus is on sustainable development, ensuring that both countries benefit mutually from the partnership.
Mr. Tegbe led a Nigerian delegation to the headquarters of China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC). They received a warm welcome from NDRC Deputy Chairman, Mr. Zhao Chenxin, and other senior officials.
During this visit, Mr. Tegbe will formalize strategic agreements across various critical sectors.
These sectors include agriculture, renewable energy, healthcare, mining, education, and technology.
These agreements aim to boost Nigeria’s food security and harness its mineral wealth effectively. Additionally, they seek to enhance innovation and improve cultural and institutional ties between the nations.
Moreover, the delegation is committed to supporting China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This initiative promotes infrastructure development and economic connectivity, benefiting both countries significantly.
The NCSP visit underscores Nigeria’s commitment to economic diversification and technology transfer. It also aims at job creation and capacity building for the youth in Nigeria.
“This strategic partnership will leverage Nigeria’s abundant resources and human capital.”
Ultimately, it will bolster infrastructure and key industries across the nation.
Throughout the week-long visit, Mr. Tegbe and his team engaged in discussions with various Chinese organizations. These organizations include the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and Power China.
Meetings with top officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the China Development Bank are also scheduled. These discussions will further explore opportunities for collaboration and investment.
The delegation’s itinerary features visits to major infrastructure projects, including the Yangshan Deep-Sea Port. They will also visit leading technology firms like Huawei and Long UAV.
A meeting with Diana Chen of the China Entrepreneurs Chamber of Commerce (CECC) is planned. This meeting aims to explore potential investment opportunities for both nations.
This visit builds on President Tinubu’s recent talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Their discussions occurred during the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
President Xi pledged 360 billion yuan (approximately $51 billion) in financing to African nations. This funding will support 30 infrastructure projects, enhancing connectivity across the continent.
Recently, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Nigeria to reinforce the growing partnership. Discussions focused on strengthening economic ties and boosting security cooperation between the two nations.
As Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, positions itself to become a net exporter to China, this visit is crucial. It advances trade, technology investments, and sustainable development for both countries.
The growing partnership highlights Nigeria’s role as China’s key economic ally on the continent. This relationship is vital for mutual benefits and long-term growth between Nigeria and China.