Nigeria and China Fortify Partnership in Belt and Road Initiative

Nigeria and China announced plans to strengthen ties in the Belt and Road Initiative, human resources development, and nuclear energy following a meeting between their leaders. China, Nigeria's largest bilateral lender, and Nigeria have a history of diplomatic relations spanning 50 years, significantly bolstered since 2018. The partnership has resulted in extensive infrastructure projects in Nigeria, including a deep sea port and rail lines. President Bola Tinubu emphasized the expected developmental and security benefits for West Africa. Tinubu also secured commitments from Chinese tech firms for renewable energy initiatives during a summit in Beijing.

Nigeria and China are set to enhance their collaboration in the Belt and Road Initiative, human resources development, and nuclear energy following a meeting between their leaders on Tuesday, a government spokesperson announced.

China, Nigeria's largest bilateral lender, has provided $5 billion in loans as of March, according to Nigeria's Debt Management Office. Diplomatic relations between the two nations have flourished for over 50 years, with a notable upswing in 2018 when they joined forces in the Belt and Road Initiative.

The bilateral partnership has led to significant infrastructure ventures in Nigeria, such as a deep sea port and new rail lines. President Bola Tinubu expressed optimism, saying, "This comprehensive strategic partnership should result in robust development, stability, and security in the West African sub-region."

President Tinubu is attending the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa in Beijing, where he joined 50 African leaders. Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted the importance of strengthening strategic coordination, stating it would bolster China-Africa relations and foster progress among Global South countries.

In addition, Tinubu visited the Huawei Research lab and obtained a commitment from Huawei to set up a joint solar PV test lab in Nigeria. Another Chinese company promised to establish an electric tricycle assembly plant and offer technological and renewable energy training to Nigerians.

(With inputs from agencies.)