In a bold move to deepen economic ties and attract foreign investment, the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) recently hosted a high-level delegation of 35 top Chinese business leaders in Abuja. The visit reflects the growing momentum of the comprehensive strategic alliance between Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China.
Facilitated by Pan-African Expansion Industrial Nigeria Ltd, the visiting delegation represents various sectors including science and technology, mining, construction, real estate, healthcare, tourism, and e-commerce. The team was warmly received by the Director-General of NCSP, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Jason Zhu emphasized their keen interest in exploring opportunities in Nigeria, with a strong focus on leveraging China’s technological and industrial expertise to drive impactful ventures.
In his welcome address, Tegbe described Nigeria as a dynamic investment destination with immense untapped potential. As Africa’s largest economy, he said, Nigeria presents a vibrant market landscape, supported by a youthful population, strategic location, and investor-friendly reforms aimed at economic stability and growth.
He highlighted government initiatives, particularly the Free Trade Zones, as viable entry points for investors seeking to expand exports and tap into regional markets. However, he urged the Chinese investors to go beyond resource extraction and instead focus on value-added production within Nigeria.
“We want our raw commodities processed here, not abroad,” Tegbe asserted. “Bring your manufacturing and advanced technologies. Let’s build together and industrialize the Nigerian economy.”
Nigeria’s thriving tech ecosystem also featured prominently in discussions. With homegrown unicorns like Andela and Flutterwave capturing global attention, Tegbe noted that collaboration in the tech sector could yield significant benefits for both countries.
“China is a leader in technological innovation. Partnering with Nigerian startups and investing in digital infrastructure will drive inclusive growth and long-term transformation,” he said.
Representing the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Victoria Aigbedion assured the investors of a smooth business entry process. She outlined key incentives available to foreign businesses and reaffirmed NIPC’s commitment to facilitating timely registrations and seamless operations.
The NCSP, established to channel targeted Chinese investments into Nigeria, aligns with both President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Its mission is to drive socio-economic transformation by promoting mutual prosperity.
As the event concluded, both parties expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria-China relations. The engagement is expected to unlock a new wave of collaboration, job creation, and infrastructural development, further solidifying Nigeria’s role as a gateway to African business.
