Nigeria-China Ties Not Exploitative, Vouches NCSP Director-General
The Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Joseph Olasunkammi Tegbe, has affirmed that the relationship between Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China is rooted in mutual respect and shared development goals, dismissing claims that the partnership is exploitative.
Speaking during a policy dialogue on international economic cooperation in Abuja, Tegbe emphasized that China’s presence and investments in Nigeria have been instrumental in advancing key sectors such as infrastructure, technology, agriculture, and education.
“The relationship between Nigeria and China is not exploitative in any way. It is a partnership built on mutual respect, strategic cooperation, and a shared commitment to national development,” Tegbe stated.
He pointed to landmark infrastructure projects executed by Chinese firms—including railways, roads, and seaports—as evidence of a productive partnership.
According to him, these initiatives have contributed significantly to Nigeria’s development, helping to close gaps in transportation and logistics that have long hampered economic growth.
Tegbe also praised China’s role in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, noting that the technological advancements and digital infrastructure introduced through this cooperation have positioned Nigeria as a regional tech hub.
While acknowledging concerns around trade imbalances between the two countries, the NCSP chief urged stakeholders to view the relationship through a broader developmental lens.
He noted that Nigeria is actively working to expand its manufacturing base and increase the volume and diversity of its exports to China.
“We must improve our production capacity and build competitiveness in global markets. Our focus should be on diversifying the economy, strengthening our industries, and attracting strategic investments that offer technology transfer and skills development,” Tegbe said.
Tegbe emphasized the importance of creating a robust legislative and policy framework that supports fair trade, protects local industries, and ensures Nigeria derives maximum benefit from its international partnerships.
He advocated for streamlined investment policies and stronger enforcement of local content regulations.
The NCSP, he explained, is working closely with both Nigerian and Chinese stakeholders to facilitate trade missions, knowledge exchange programs, and joint ventures aimed at long-term economic sustainability.
In a show of diplomatic alignment, Tegbe reiterated Nigeria’s support for the One-China principle, affirming the country’s respect for China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Looking ahead, he expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria-China relations, highlighting emerging areas of collaboration such as renewable energy, manufacturing, industrial parks, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
“The opportunities are vast, and with the right strategy, Nigeria stands to gain immensely from a well-structured partnership with China,” Tegbe concluded.
