Economic relations between China and Nigeria reached new heights in 2025, with bilateral trade exceeding US$22.3 billion in the first 10 months of the year, underscoring the deepening strategic and economic partnership between the two countries. Chinese officials say the surge reflects strong momentum in trade, investment and infrastructure cooperation, positioning Nigeria as one of China’s most important partners in Africa.
According to China’s Consul‑General in Lagos, Ms Yan Yuqing, trade between China and Nigeria grew by more than 30 percent year‑on‑year, driven by robust demand for goods, services and ongoing investment projects. Nigeria has emerged as one of China’s top African destinations for foreign direct investment, with major infrastructure developments such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port, the Lagos‑Ibadan Railway, and industrial free trade zones boosting commercial activity and industrial growth.
Yuqing highlighted that Nigeria’s agricultural exports, including cashews, sesame seeds, sorghum and dried ginger, have gained greater access to Chinese markets, expanding trade beyond traditional manufactured imports. China has also supported the development of critical transport and logistics infrastructure that enhances Nigeria’s role in regional commerce.
The rapid expansion in trade is part of a broader strategic partnership that has intensified since the 2024 Forum on China‑Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit, where both nations elevated relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This framework has laid the groundwork for increased cooperation in areas such as energy, industry, digital technology, and cultural exchange, in addition to traditional trade flows.
Experts point out that China’s involvement in Nigeria spans beyond trade volumes. Chinese infrastructure investment has played a significant role in powering economic growth, with projects like the Lekki Deep Sea Port projected to generate long‑term economic benefits and create jobs. The port has become a key hub for Nigerian and West African maritime trade, helping lower logistics costs and attract further investment.
Energy and industrial cooperation are also expanding. Chinese firms are participating in projects aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s power infrastructure, including the Abuja Water Supply Project, which completed in June with a large capacity to serve millions, and renewable energy initiatives that align with Nigeria’s development priorities.
China’s national planning frameworks, such as its 15th Five‑Year Plan, also offer avenues for aligning long‑term economic strategies with Nigeria’s development goals. Chinese officials have emphasised mutual growth through collaboration in manufacturing, green technology, and digital economy sectors, sectors that promise to drive economic diversification and create new jobs.
Trade growth has benefited from Nigeria’s position as China’s second‑largest trading partner in Africa, reflecting not just imports of Chinese manufactured goods but also growing Nigerian export volumes and participation in industrial value chains. Industry leaders say continued collaboration, including at trade expos and investment forums, will further strengthen ties through shared economic opportunities.
Looking ahead to 2026, both nations are positioning their partnership to expand into new areas such as digital infrastructure, technology transfer and renewable energy partnerships, while deepening engagement through cultural and people‑to‑people exchanges that enhance the foundation of bilateral cooperation.
