The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, at the weekend disclosed that the bilateral trade between Nigeria and China in 2024 exceeded $20 billion, restating his government’s determination to continue to explore investment opportunities for Chinese companies in Nigeria in the years ahead.
The Envoy, who made this disclosure at the 2025 Chinese Lunar New Year celebration at the Chinese Cultural Centre, in Abuja on Saturday, said China was eager to work with Nigeria to increase trade relations, given Nigeria’s trade and investment opportunities potential.
He said: “Nigeria is the country where China has the largest engineering contract, the second largest exporting market, and the third largest trade partner for China in Africa.
“2024 was a successful year for the two countries, the climax of the success being the elevation of the two countries’ bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership by President Bola Tinubu when he visited China. 2025 will be a lot better.”
Dunhai pointed out that one of the key pillars of the Nigeria-China relationship remained the very close people-to-people and cultural exchange, and the Chinese New Year celebration served as a significant catalyst in promoting the exchange.
The Envoy further clarified: “Nigeria is a major African country that has world influence, and being a partner country of BRICS, China looks forward to working with it to implement the 10 Action Partnerships that will benefit citizens of the two countries.
“Happy Chinese New Year to all of the Chinese communities in Nigeria. I also wish the people of Nigeria a year filled with joy, peace, prosperity, and love.
“The year of the snake represents hard work, intelligence, happiness, so we hope that the year of the snake will bring peace and prosperity for Chinese and Nigerian people.
“Each year, we organize this Spring Festival Temple Fair, and this year, we invited over 2,000, both Nigerians and Chinese, to enjoy and celebrate together with us”, Dunhai added.
Speaking at the event, Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Mr. Oraeluno Raphael Obi, recalled the relationship between Nigeria and China was “steeped in history” and characterized by mutual respect and shared aspirations.
According to him, just as the snake sheds its skin to embrace new beginnings, the two countries bilateral ties continue to evolve, reflecting the governments’ commitment to wisdom and transformation.
Obi explained that despite their geographical distance, the two countries shared a common trait, boasting rich and diverse cultures with deep historical roots that continue to influence their modern societies.
In addition, he noted that they found common ground in their shared values of family, community, and respect for elders, as reflected in the vibrant festivals of Nigeria and the colorful traditions of China.
The Permanent Secretary clarified: “The goodwill that China has extended towards Nigeria in various sectors, particularly in culture and tourism, has been instrumental in enhancing our bilateral relationship.
“The collaborative efforts in cultural exchanges, art exhibitions, and tourism initiatives have not only enriched our societies but have also created avenues for economic growth and development.
“As we celebrate this New Year, I would like to reaffirm our commitment to promoting and strengthening the bilateral cultural ties between Nigeria and China.
“The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy is dedicated to implementing policies and programmes that foster cultural exchange, support artistic collaborations and enhance Tourism opportunities.
“We envision a future where our cultural interactions flourish, creating a network of shared experiences that benefit both nations”, Obi projected.
