The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has called for stronger economic and legislative collaboration between Nigeria and China in response to changing global trade dynamics, particularly the recent US tariffs impacting non-oil exports.
During a meeting with a Chinese delegation led by Vice-Chairman Mr. Hu Chunhua, Abbas emphasized the importance of alternative trade partnerships, highlighting China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation as crucial platforms for boosting Nigeria’s economic opportunities.
Abbas noted that China’s economic transformation serves as an inspiration for Nigeria, particularly in areas such as industrial policy, poverty reduction and technological innovation.
The Speaker reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to strengthening institutional ties with China’s legislative bodies, citing shared interests in development, science and sustainability.
He also emphasized Nigeria’s support for the “One China Principle” and the country’s devotion to dialogue and cooperation in addressing global challenges.
The Nigeria-China relationship has seen significant growth, with bilateral trade reaching $22.6 billion in 2023 and Chinese investments creating over 100,000 jobs in Nigeria.
China is also a major supplier of agricultural and food processing equipment to Nigeria, accounting for 90% of imports.
The recent elevation of the relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership reflects the mutual trust and resolve between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President Xi Jinping.
