President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening its partnership with China, particularly in infrastructure, trade, finance, and energy. In an op-ed published in China Daily on September 5, 2024, Tinubu emphasized the importance of the growing relationship, highlighting that bilateral trade between the two countries reached $22.6 billion last year.
Tinubu praised China’s role in Nigeria’s infrastructure development, particularly in transportation, citing key projects such as the Lagos-Ibadan Railway. He expressed optimism for future collaboration on the Ibadan-Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Railway, a project poised to boost economic growth and connectivity.
“Transportation infrastructure is a key driver of development, facilitating trade, creating jobs, and opening channels for investment,” Tinubu noted. He also mentioned the LAGRIDE initiative in Lagos, a partnership with CIG Motors, as a promising model for advancing e-mobility in Africa.
The Nigerian president acknowledged China’s leadership in global economic development, attributing much of its success to President Xi Jinping’s vision. Drawing comparisons between the reform efforts in both nations, Tinubu emphasized Nigeria’s pursuit of economic revitalization and long-term growth.
Tinubu’s upcoming participation in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) underscores Nigeria’s dedication to enhancing ties with China. He expressed confidence that this engagement will lead to deeper cooperation and mutual benefits as Nigeria continues its “Renewed Hope” agenda focused on sustainable development.
