Nigeria-China Trade Volume Among the Highest in Africa, Says VP Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed satisfaction with the growing trade volume between Nigeria and China, describing it as one of the largest in Africa. He emphasized the importance of continually strengthening relations between the two countries, noting their longstanding mutual respect and cooperation.

Shettima made these comments on Tuesday in Abuja during a meeting with a Chinese delegation led by Zhang Qingwei, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC), at the Presidential Villa.

In a statement released by his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima highlighted the impressive trade growth between the nations, stating, “In 2023, our trade with China reached $22.6 billion, one of the highest in Africa, and it continues to grow by 33 percent annually.” He added that despite the Nigerian economy’s challenges, trade with China has remained strong, reaffirming Nigeria’s support and respect for the relationship.

Shettima stressed the need to further enhance the bilateral ties, which have been flourishing for over five decades. “Nigeria and China have enjoyed a warm partnership for 53 years, dating back to 1971,” he said. “This friendship is evident in the numerous high-level visits, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent trip to China in September 2024. These visits continue to deepen our cooperation.”

The Vice President also praised China’s cultural heritage and growing influence on the global stage, emphasizing the need for increased South-South cooperation. “Now is the time for greater engagement between China and Nigeria,” Shettima said, reaffirming the importance of strengthening bilateral relations.

In his address, Shettima reiterated Nigeria’s support for China’s One China policy and expressed optimism about overcoming the nation’s security challenges. He called for China’s assistance in improving Nigeria’s security infrastructure. “We are investing in technology to reshape our security architecture,” he said, “and we look forward to China’s support and cooperation in this regard.”

Earlier, Zhang Qingwei, the leader of the Chinese delegation, stated that the strategic partnership between Nigeria and China is entering a new phase. He referred to President Tinubu’s September visit to China, during which both leaders agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, marking a new chapter in the relationship. “China is ready to collaborate with Nigeria to implement the outcomes of the summit and take our relations to greater heights,” he said.

Zhang also emphasized the importance of mutual political support between the two countries, noting China’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts. The delegation included several prominent Chinese officials, such as Mr. Yu Dunhai, China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, and Hon. Chio Bing, Vice Chairman of the Financial and Economic Affairs Committee of the NPC.

The meeting underscored the growing partnership between Nigeria and China, with both sides expressing a strong desire to deepen their collaboration for the mutual benefit of their nations.