In a move to deepen Nigeria-China relations and foster economic collaboration, the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) recently hosted a delegation from the Z-Park Science and Technology Entrepreneurs Association. This visit marked a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral ties and exploring new avenues for technological cooperation.
Leading the delegation was Mr. Shi Qilin, Executive Secretary-General of Z-Park Science and Technology Entrepreneurs Association. He was warmly received by NCSP Director-General, Mr. Joseph Tegbe. The discussions focused on scaling up Nigeria’s digital economy, infrastructure development, and fostering partnerships in science, technology, education, and cultural exchanges.
Driving Innovation and Economic Growth
The proposed collaboration aims to leverage Chinese scientific and technological expertise to create localized industrial and agricultural solutions. This initiative is expected to generate jobs, drive economic growth, and enhance workforce development through industry-education integration programs. By equipping local talent with specialized skills, the partnership seeks to bridge the gap in Nigeria’s technical workforce and accelerate industrialization.
During the visit, Mr. Shi presented insights into the industrial and technological advancements within the Zhongguancun Infovalley Science and Technology Park, part of the ZGC group. With 25 years of experience and 50 successful parks across China, the ZGC group expressed a strong interest in replicating similar developments in Africa, particularly in Nigeria. Strategic collaboration opportunities were highlighted, including leveraging the Ogun-Guangdong Free Trade Zone as a hub for technological and industrial expansion.
A Commitment to Bilateral Progress
Welcoming the delegation, Mr. Joseph Tegbe reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria-China relations through trade, investment, and infrastructure development. He emphasized that the administration prioritizes key sectors such as electricity generation and transmission, renewable energy deployment, and the production of electric vehicles as part of its broader economic agenda.
The Chinese delegation included esteemed representatives such as Mr. Shen Wei, Executive Secretary-General of Zhongguancun Science and Technology Entrepreneurs Association; Mr. Zheng Yi, Regional General Manager of Beijing Zhongguancun Infogu Asset Management Co. Ltd.; Mr. Chen Jia, Chairman of Infogu (Tianjin) Industry-Education Integration Technology Co. Ltd.; Ms. Wang Xiuqing, Africa Regional Manager at Infogu (Tianjin); and Mr. Liu Zhigang, Deputy General Manager of the Ogun-Guangdong Free Trade Zone, among others.
Looking Ahead
This engagement underscores the increasing importance of Nigeria-China relations in driving economic development and cross-border cooperation. With ongoing discussions between NCSP and ZGC, both parties remain optimistic about forming strategic, mutually beneficial partnerships that will position Nigeria as a leading technology and industrial hub in Africa.
The visit marks a pivotal step in fostering innovation, knowledge transfer, and sustainable economic growth, setting the stage for future collaborations that will benefit both nations.
