Nigeria has taken a major step toward deepening its economic ties with China by hosting a high-level delegation of 35 Chinese investors. The visit, part of the growing Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), signals a shared commitment to mutual growth through business, trade, and technology.
The visiting delegation, led by Mr. Jason Zhu, included representatives from leading Chinese firms interested in key sectors such as science and technology, real estate, healthcare, construction, mining, tourism, and e-commerce. The event was facilitated by Pan-African Expansion Industrial Nigeria Ltd and hosted by the Director-General of the NCSP, Mr. Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe.
A New Era of Nigeria-China Economic Cooperation
Mr. Tegbe welcomed the delegation in Abuja, highlighting Nigeria’s readiness to engage in robust partnerships with international investors. He described Nigeria as a growing hub for African trade, powered by a large and youthful population and favorable government policies.
“Nigeria is Africa’s largest economy and a gateway to business across the continent,” Tegbe said. “We are open for business, and we want partnerships that will drive real value, not just resource exports.”
He emphasized the country’s strategic position on the African continent and its commitment to building a business-friendly environment through regulatory reforms and targeted investment incentives.
Focus on Value Addition and Local Production
While addressing the investors, Tegbe encouraged them to consider Nigeria not just as a source of raw materials, but as a viable manufacturing hub.
“We want to move away from exporting raw commodities. Our goal is to attract partners who will support local production and help us export finished, value-added products,” he added.
This aligns with Nigeria’s long-term industrialization goals and the government’s ambition to create sustainable jobs and increase foreign direct investment (FDI).
Nigeria’s Booming Tech Industry Attracts Global Attention
A major highlight of the discussions was the opportunity in Nigeria’s technology sector. Tegbe pointed out that Nigeria has produced several global tech success stories, including companies like Flutterwave and Andela. These companies have attracted billions of dollars in funding and positioned Nigeria as a tech innovation hub in Africa.
With China recognized as a global leader in artificial intelligence, green energy, and digital infrastructure, both countries see huge potential in joint technology projects.
“Technology is our bridge to the future,” Mr. Zhu noted. “We’re excited about what we can build together with Nigeria.”
Investment Opportunities Across Key Sectors
The Chinese investors expressed particular interest in Nigeria’s construction and real estate industries, citing the country’s rapid urban growth and infrastructure needs. Others explored opportunities in healthcare, e-commerce, and mining—areas where Nigeria holds vast untapped potential.
Tegbe outlined several government initiatives and policies that make Nigeria attractive to foreign investors, including tax incentives, the development of Free Trade Zones (FTZs), and simplified business registration processes.
Building a Stronger Africa-Asia Partnership
The meeting represents a strategic moment in Nigeria-China relations, as both countries work to convert political goodwill into real economic gains. Strengthened bilateral ties could lead to:
- Increased trade volume
- Job creation and skill development
- Infrastructure development
- Improved technology and knowledge transfer
As China continues to invest heavily across Africa, Nigeria remains one of its key partners. The collaboration fits into the framework of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which seeks to enhance connectivity and economic development worldwide.
Commitment to Sustainable and Inclusive Growth
Tegbe called on the delegation to ensure that their investments reflect Nigeria’s values—especially in sustainability and community development.
“We welcome your investments, but we also urge you to build with the Nigerian people in mind,” he said. “We want technology and jobs, not just profits.”
He added that the government will continue to prioritize partnerships that respect local content laws, support small businesses, and promote innovation.
A Promising Future for Nigeria-China Business Relations
As the visit came to a close, both parties expressed optimism about future collaboration. Several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed in the coming weeks.
This visit reflects a shared commitment by Nigeria and China to deepen their economic cooperation through strategic investments and business partnerships.
