Lagos: The Chinese Consul-General in Lagos, Ms Yan Yuqing, has announced that trade between China and Nigeria exceeded $22.3 billion from January to October 2025, reflecting a significant year-on-year increase of 30.2 percent. Yuqing shared these insights at the Lagos Forum New Year Media Symposium, emphasizing the robust economic and trade cooperation between the two nations and projecting deeper ties in the coming year.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Yuqing highlighted Nigeria’s prominence as a leading investment destination for China in Africa over several years. Nigeria’s role as Guest Country of Honour at both the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in June and the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in November underscored the growing bilateral ties. Nigerian exports, including cashews, sesame seeds, sorghum, and dried ginger, have seen increased access to the Chinese market.
Yuqing also pointed out the importance of the Lekki and Ogun-Guangdong Free Trade Zones as vital platforms for industrial collaboration. The ongoing development-focused partnerships are delivering substantial benefits in infrastructure, agriculture, and the digital economy, facilitating job creation and enhancing local industrial capacity in Nigeria. She cited the Lekki Deep Sea Port’s projected annual throughput of 520,000 TEUs, marking over 82 percent growth, and record passenger volumes on the Lagos-Ibadan Railway and Lagos Light Rail, which have improved mobility and reduced congestion.
The consul-general emphasized the expanding people-to-people and cultural exchanges, which have strengthened mutual understanding between China and Nigeria. Looking forward, she noted that 2026 would see the 55th anniversary of China-Nigeria relations and the 70th anniversary of China-Africa ties. Yuqing expressed China’s commitment to deepening trust and cooperation, particularly in new energy, the digital economy, and cultural exchanges, to further solidify the China-Nigeria strategic partnership and Africa’s shared future.
In addition to discussing bilateral ties, Yuqing criticized a recent $11 billion U.S. arms sale to Taiwan, labeling it a violation of China’s sovereignty and a provocative signal to separatist forces. She reiterated that Taiwan remains a core interest of China and urged adherence to the One-China Principle, citing historical records that establish Taiwan as an integral part of China since 230 AD.
Chief Jacob Wood, Secretary General of the West Africa Association for the Promotion of Peaceful Reunification of China, also spoke at the symposium, praising the peaceful coexistence between Nigerians and Chinese residents. He encouraged continued unity and recognized Nigeria as a prime investment destination. Dr. Eric Ni, Chairman of the Chinese Industrial and Commercial Enterprises Association and Huaxing Arts Troupe Nigeria, advocated for enhanced collaboration between Chinese and Nigerian business and cultural sectors.