- China and Nigeria plan to collaborate on energy, smart cities, and infrastructure development, leveraging advanced technologies and resources.
- The partnership, aligned with China’s Belt and Road Initiative, aims to address Nigeria’s energy challenges and boost economic growth.
Mr. Fang Qiuchen, Chairman of the China International Contractors Association (CHINCA), has announced plans for China and Nigeria to collaborate on energy projects, digital intelligent cities, and infrastructure development.
Speaking at a sideline interview in Abuja during the opening of the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE), Fang highlighted the longstanding relationship between the two countries, which dates back to 1991, as a foundation for this new partnership.
The collaboration aims to address Nigeria’s energy challenges by leveraging advanced technologies, including big data, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI), alongside Nigeria’s abundant resources. According to Fang, this partnership will create a sustainable energy framework to enhance energy access, promote economic growth, and support urban development.
The focus will also be on advancing clean energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, aligning with global sustainability trends. Developing smart cities will also integrate digital technologies to improve urban management and enhance residents’ quality of life.
Mr. Xia Hao, Deputy Dean of the School of Economics and Trade at Hunan University, noted that Nigeria’s large population and strong economic ties with China could accelerate development in renewable energy and infrastructure sectors.
Mr Joseph Tegbe, Director-General and Global Liaison for the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, emphasised that the initiative aligns with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which seeks to position Nigeria as a critical hub in West Africa.
Over 100 Chinese companies, including China Communication Construction (CCCC), and others, are part of the initiative, aiming to drive socio-economic growth through investments in infrastructure and technology. Nigeria and China are partnering to enhance infrastructure development in the country.