Nigeria in talks with China to enhance infrastructural development 

Nigeria in talks with China to enhance infrastructural development 

Joel Oladele 

Nigeria and China are in talks on ways to enhance infrastructural development and economic growth in Nigeria. 

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, disclosed this to journalists in Abuja on Thursday after a closed door meeting with a high powered Chinese delegation led by the Director-General of the Department of African Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, China, Mr. Wu Peng.

The meeting with Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, is a prelude to a ministerial and presidential visit to China, later in the year.

According to Ambassador Tuggar, infrastructure is a cornerstone of President Bola Tinubu’s development agenda hence the need to further expand trade and economic cooperation.

He noted that reciprocating the visit to counterpart in China would create a fertile ground for closer collaboration and strengthen ties.

Mr. Peng, on his part, harped on support for Nigeria’s industrialization and value-added manufacturing, particularly in battery-related minerals, a sector where Nigeria holds rich potential.

He pledged China’s support for Nigeria’s aspirations on the global stage, especially on the call for increased African representation in the United Nations Security Council.

Mr. Peng, noted that some of his country’s contribution and involvement in Nigerian projects, including the railway project have led to job creation and local economic empowerment

The Chinese delegation expressed great confidence in Nigeria’s economic future, seeing the 21st century as Africa’s time to shine. This optimism coincides with Nigeria’s own plans for reform and growth, creating a fertile ground for closer collaboration.

This visit underscores the deepening relationship between China and Nigeria, one that promises mutual benefits in infrastructure, trade, and global influence. As Africa rises in prominence, Nigeria, with China’s support, appears poised to play a leading role in shaping the continent’s future.