China’s economic engagement with Nigeria continues to grow, with Chinese direct investment in the country rising by 130 percent and bilateral trade surpassing $22 billion for the first time this year, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has said.
The ambassador made the disclosure at the first annual China–Nigeria Government Exchange Programme Alumni Reunion Gala, held at the Abuja Continental Hotel on Thursday. The event, organized by the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, brought together alumni of the government exchange programme, senior officials, and development stakeholders.
Speaking at the gala, Ambassador Yu stated that over 10,000 Nigerians have participated in Chinese government training programmes across a wide range of sectors, including governance, public health, agriculture, manufacturing, trade, investment, science, technology, innovation, and the digital and blue economies. He described the programmes as a cornerstone of the long-standing China–Nigeria partnership and a key driver of people-to-people cooperation.
“These initiatives not only enhance the capabilities of individuals but also contribute significantly to Nigeria’s socio-economic development,” Yu said, noting that alumni are spread across major cities, including Abuja, Lagos, Maiduguri, Ibadan, and Benin City.
Yu attributed China’s long-standing commitment to capacity building in Nigeria to the strong bilateral ties between both countries, which date back over 50 years. He described Nigeria and China as natural partners that have consistently supported each other on key national interests and international issues.
He highlighted China’s support for Nigeria’s role in global affairs, including its recent recognition as a BRICS partner country, its return to the International Maritime Organisation and its aspiration to join the G20. The ambassador also acknowledged Nigeria’s firm support for China’s One-China policy as a reflection of mutual trust.
On trade, the ambassador stated that bilateral trade between both countries has exceeded $22 billion this year, already surpassing last year’s total. He added that Chinese direct investment in Nigeria has risen by 130 percent, while Nigeria’s exports to China have grown by over 200 percent.
He also pointed to the implementation of China’s zero-tariff policy for all products from African countries, including Nigeria, describing it as a significant opportunity to expand Nigeria’s access to the Chinese market and strengthen its position in global trade.
Ambassador Yu also noted that China’s per-capita GDP rose from $200 in 1980 to $13,000 last year, while the country now commands 35 percent of global manufacturing capacity. He said this economic rise demonstrates why China is a reliable partner for Nigeria’s long-term development.
He reiterated China’s commitment to working with Nigeria to achieve shared economic and social development goals, adding that the 15th Five-Year Plan will guide China’s high-quality development and reform initiatives over the next five years.
