ABUJA – Nigeria and China are taking bold steps to deepen their economic relationship by eliminating trade restrictions and fostering a more business-friendly environment. This commitment was emphasized during the unveiling of the Nigeria-China Bilateral Business, Trade, and Investment Summit 2025 in Abuja.
At the event, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, stressed the need for the country to modernize its business landscape. Represented by Amb. Bolaji Alade Akinremi, Director of Economy, Trade, and Investment, the minister urged the removal of investment barriers to create a thriving economic ecosystem.
“We must move beyond outdated models and embrace forward-thinking, technology-driven business structures. Nigeria needs to position itself as a global investment hub,” he said.
Similarly, Hon. Jafaru Yakubu, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Nigeria-China Parliamentary Relations, underscored the need to strengthen the economic partnership between both nations. He noted that the committee is actively working to ease business operations and negotiations between Nigerian and Chinese investors.
China’s Economic and Trade Commercial Counselor, Mr. Wang Ying-Ki, reiterated Nigeria’s strategic importance as China’s largest trade and investment partner in Africa. He highlighted successful projects like the Ogun Free Trade Zone and Nike Free Trade Zone, emphasizing China’s commitment to infrastructure and economic growth in Nigeria.
“The recent visit of President Bola Tinubu to China further reinforced our economic cooperation. We remain committed to working closely with Nigeria to enhance trade, investment, and infrastructure development,” Wang stated.
The summit aims to bridge investment gaps, promote direct business collaboration, and transition the Nigeria-China partnership from mere trade to full-scale development. Over 217 Chinese companies have expressed interest in investing in Nigeria, focusing on key sectors such as agriculture, mining, renewable energy, oil and gas, and manufacturing.
Kunle Yusuff, Executive Vice Chairman of Merited Negotiation Consulting, emphasized the summit’s role in identifying challenges faced by Chinese businesses in Nigeria and providing solutions to enhance the ease of doing business.
“This summit is not just about trade—it’s about creating lasting economic development. The goal is to strengthen institutional linkages, drive foreign direct investment, and foster collaboration between state governments, the private sector, and Chinese investors,” he said.
The summit is being organized in collaboration with major stakeholders, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC). A dedicated technical working group is also developing strategies to ensure long-term success.
With growing interest from Chinese businesses and renewed governmental commitment, the Nigeria-China trade relationship is poised for a transformative shift—one that promises economic growth, job creation, and infrastructural development for both nations.
