Nigeria, China eye new partnership in renewable energy, agriculture

Nigeria and China have pledged deeper cooperation in emerging sectors, including renewable energy, digital economy and agriculture, as both countries mark 55 years of diplomatic relations amid renewed commitments to economic transformation and people-to-people engagement.

Both countries acknowledged that the long-standing partnership has evolved into a strategic relationship delivering infrastructure, trade and development gains across Nigeria.

They disclosed this at a reception held in Lagos celebrating the Chinese New Year and the 55th Anniversary of the Establishment of the China-Nigeria Diplomatic Relations.

Chairman of the House Committee on Nigeria–China Relations, Jaafaru Yakubu, said the relationship, established in 1971, was built on mutual respect, non-interference and shared development goals, noting that China remains one of Nigeria’s most significant partners in infrastructure, technology transfer, industrialisation, education and cultural exchange.

He added that visible outcomes of the partnership include rail, road and power projects as well as growth in manufacturing and digital innovation.

Yakubu reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to strengthening legislative cooperation and improving bilateral frameworks to ensure partnerships remain transparent, sustainable and beneficial to citizens.

He said policymakers would continue to promote investment-friendly policies capable of creating jobs and supporting Nigeria’s long-term economic transformation.

The lawmaker also highlighted opportunities for expanded collaboration in renewable energy, healthcare, science and technology, agriculture and human capital development.

According to him, such cooperation would further strengthen global South synergy and contribute to global development efforts.

Consul General of China in Lagos, Yan Yuqing, said significant milestones in China–Nigeria relations were recorded in 2025, including increased high-level diplomatic exchanges and expanded economic cooperation.

She noted that Nigeria participated in major Chinese trade exhibitions while more Chinese enterprises increased investment in Nigeria.

Yuqing cited key projects delivered through bilateral cooperation, including the Abuja Greater Water Supply Project, which she said improved water access for about three million people and increased throughput at the Lekki Deep Sea Port.

She added that passenger and freight traffic on the Lagos–Ibadan railway and Lagos light rail also reached new highs, enhancing mobility and cargo transportation.