The economic partnership between Nigeria and China reached a significant milestone in 2025, with bilateral trade volume soaring past $22.3 billion between January and October. This impressive figure was announced by the Chinese Consul-General in Lagos, Ms. Yan Yuqing, who projected even deeper ties for the coming year.
Record Trade Growth and Investment Momentum
Speaking at the Lagos Forum New Year Media Symposium, Consul-General Yan Yuqing revealed that the $22.3 billion trade volume marked a substantial 30.2 per cent increase compared to the same period in the previous year. She emphasized that this growth demonstrates the great vitality and strong momentum of China-Nigeria economic cooperation.
Yuqing highlighted that Nigeria has consistently remained one of China's major investment destinations in Africa. This status was further cemented in 2025 when Nigeria was honoured as the Guest Country of Honour at two major Chinese events: the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in June and the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in November.
Key Sectors and Infrastructure Driving Cooperation
The envoy outlined several critical areas where collaboration is delivering tangible benefits. Nigerian agricultural exports like cashews, sesame seeds, sorghum, and dried ginger have gained significantly improved access to the vast Chinese market.
On the industrial front, the Lekki and Ogun–Guangdong Free Trade Zones continue to serve as vital platforms for manufacturing and industrial cooperation. Yuqing pointed to major infrastructure projects as evidence of successful partnership:
- The Lekki Deep Sea Port is projected to handle 520,000 TEUs yearly, representing an over 82 per cent year-on-year growth in throughput.
- The Lagos-Ibadan Railway and Lagos Light Rail have seen record-high passenger volumes, effectively easing urban congestion and improving mobility for residents.
She noted that these development-focused projects have supported job creation and strengthened local industrial capacity across Nigeria.
Cultural Exchange and Future Prospects for 2026
Beyond economics, people-to-people and cultural exchanges are expanding, strengthening mutual understanding between the two nations. Other speakers at the symposium echoed the sentiment of growing ties.
Jacob Wood, Secretary General of the West Africa Association for the Promotion of Peaceful Reunification of China, commended the peaceful coexistence between Nigerian and Chinese communities despite cultural differences. He urged continued unity and described Nigeria as the premier destination for investment in the region.
Similarly, Dr. Eric Ni, Chairman of the Chinese Industrial and Commercial Enterprises Association and Huaxing Arts Troupe Nigeria, called for stronger collaboration between businesses and cultural institutions from both countries. He argued that deepening trade, investment, and cultural exchanges are essential for fostering understanding, engaging youth, and promoting shared development.
The consensus from the forum is clear: the strategic partnership between Nigeria and China, built on a foundation of robust trade and infrastructure development, is poised for even greater achievements in 2026.
