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Trade between Nigeria and China has reached 18 billion dollars in the first half of 2026, representing a 35 percent increase, as both countries seek to deepen cooperation in industrialisation, technology, energy and trade.

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai, stated this in Abuja at a reception marking the 77th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China. He said China was ready to expand cooperation with Nigeria in industrialisation, the digital economy, green development and the blue economy.

Ambassador Dunhai said China was prepared to align its 15th Five-Year Plan with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, while noting that Chinese imports from Nigeria had increased by 81 per cent.

He highlighted China’s zero-tariff treatment for eligible products from 53 African countries, which took effect on May 1, describing the policy as an opportunity to transform Africa’s resources into greater industrial and export capacity. He said Chinese imports from Africa rose by 24 per cent in May and June following the implementation of the measure.

Reflecting on his two years in Nigeria, Ambassador Dunhai said his experience had deepened his appreciation of the country and its people, whom he described as resilient and optimistic.

“To embrace China is to embrace the future; to walk with China is to walk with opportunity,” he said, urging both countries to use innovation, openness and cooperation to strengthen their partnership.

The Minister of Power and Director-General of the Nigeria-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, who represented President Bola Tinubu, said the relationship had evolved significantly since Nigeria and China established diplomatic ties on February 10, 1971.

Mr. Tegbe cited Chinese participation in major Nigerian infrastructure projects, including the Lekki Deep Seaport, railway modernisation and Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Station, but stressed the need for such partnerships to deliver lasting benefits to Nigerians.

He said rising trade should be matched by stronger Nigerian production and increased exports to the Chinese market.

“Our shared task is to translate that asset into stronger Nigerian production and Nigerian exports to China, with benefits that will endure for both economies,” he said.

Mr. Tegbe identified the power sector as another area with significant potential for cooperation, particularly in electricity generation, renewable energy and local manufacturing of power equipment.

He stressed the importance of developing Nigerian engineers, technicians and local businesses capable of operating and maintaining infrastructure delivered through foreign partnerships.

Mr. Tegbe also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the One-China principle, saying Nigeria recognises the government of the People’s Republic of China as the sole legal government representing China.

The reception was attended by more than 600 guests, including senior government officials, members of the National Assembly, diplomats, representatives of international organisations, members of the Chinese community and other distinguished guests.

Editing by Daniel Adejo