The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has urged deeper economic and legislative collaboration between Nigeria and China amid shifting global trade dynamics, particularly the rise in US tariffs affecting non-oil exports.
During a meeting in Abuja with a delegation from the China People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), led by Vice-Chairman Mr Hu Chunhua, Speaker Abbas highlighted the importance of alternative trade partnerships. He identified China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation as key platforms for enhancing Nigeria’s economic opportunities.
“In the face of evolving global trade dynamics, exemplified by the recent imposition of tariffs by the United States that have affected our non-oil exports, it is imperative that we diversify our trade partnerships. Enhancing our economic ties with China presents significant opportunities for our nation.
In this regard, Nigeria is equally enthusiastic about deepening cooperation through platforms such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation. These initiatives provide promising avenues for expanding trade, fostering investment, and promoting knowledge exchange.
As the world witnesses China’s remarkable economic transformation, we find in its experience a model of inspiration, particularly in the areas of industrial policy, poverty reduction, and technological innovation,” the Speaker noted.
The Speaker also expressed the National Assembly’s commitment to stronger institutional ties with China’s legislative bodies. He pointed to China’s recent “Two Sessions” policy focus—on development, science, and sustainability—as areas of shared interest with Nigeria.
He reaffirmed the House’s support for parliamentary diplomacy, saying enhanced cooperation with China aligns with Nigeria’s foreign policy goals and the shared vision of peace, prosperity, and modernisation.
Speaker Abbas further emphasised the significance of Nigeria’s relationship with China, describing it as a central pillar of its foreign relations, spanning key sectors such as infrastructure, health, education, and trade.
“The recent elevation of our relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is clear evidence of the mutual trust and resolve cultivated by the interactions between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and President Xi Jinping.
Nigeria’s steadfast support for the ‘One China Principle’ reflects our deep-rooted belief in the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, and we remain devoted to dialogue and cooperation as the means to address complex global challenges,” he said.
In response, Mr Chunhua recalled President Tinubu’s 2023 visit to China and reaffirmed China’s commitment to fulfilling bilateral agreements and strengthening ties based on shared interests.