Nigeria Urges China to Extend Trade Tariff Removal
The Federal Government of Nigeria has urged China to extend its recent trade tariff removal to Nigeria, as it has done for 33 other African nations.
According to a statement from her media aide, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this appeal during a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai.
Call for Economic Cooperation
Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to industrialization and economic diversification, urging China’s support in key sectors such as:
- Electric vehicle assembly
- Digital technology
- Renewable energy
- Agriculture
She highlighted the strong diplomatic and economic ties between both nations, stating:
“Nigeria has enjoyed a robust relationship with China for over five decades. Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, our priority is economic diversification and industrialization.”
China’s Role in Nigeria’s Development
The minister acknowledged China’s contributions to Nigeria’s infrastructure, particularly in:
- Roads and railways
- Power sector modernization
- Port development
She also highlighted the growing interest among Nigerian youths in learning the Chinese language, underscoring the importance of cultural exchange in strengthening bilateral relations.
China Reaffirms Commitment to Nigeria
In response, Ambassador Yu Dunhai reaffirmed China’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Nigeria, describing the country as a strategic ally.
He revealed that trade between the two nations surpassed $21 billion last year, with Nigerian exports to China increasing by 25%.
“China sees Nigeria as a great nation and a key player on the global stage. We support Nigeria’s inclusion in the G-20 and will continue to foster cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and financial partnerships,” he said.
Dunhai also emphasized the importance of manufacturing in industrialization and highlighted the recently renewed $2 billion currency swap agreement, which he said would further boost trade and investment between the two countries.
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