By Duke C. I.
The Senator representing Abia North, and former Abia State Governor, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to further strengthen Nigeria’s trade and economic relations with China, emphasising the strategic importance of deepening bilateral cooperation for national development.
Kalu made the call while hosting the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, and his delegation to a private “pre-Easter” dinner today in Abuja, where both parties held what he described as a warm and fruitful discussion centred on expanding mutual opportunities between the two countries.
The meeting, which underscored ongoing diplomatic and economic engagements, comes at a time when Nigeria is seeking sustainable pathways to economic growth, industrialisation and infrastructure development. Kalu stressed that building stronger ties with China would create greater investment flows, boost trade volumes and enhance technology transfer, all of which are critical to Nigeria’s long-term economic stability.
According to the senator, China remains one of Nigeria’s most important economic partners, with a track record of financing and executing major infrastructure projects across sectors such as rail, power and construction. He noted that encouraging more Chinese investors into Nigeria would not only stimulate local industries but also create employment opportunities and improve productivity across key sectors of the economy.
A robust Nigeria – China relationship has enormous economic benefits including increased foreign direct investment, access to affordable financing and the development of critical infrastructure. With China’s global expertise in manufacturing and technology, strong partnership deals would significantly support local capacity building and industrial growth.
Kalu further emphasised the need for Nigeria to position itself as a favourable destination for international investors by ensuring policy consistency, improving ease of doing business and strengthening diplomatic engagements. He maintained that proactive leadership and strategic alliances which President Tinubu’s administration is proving, are essential in navigating the complexities of the global economy.
The engagement with Ambassador Yu reflects Kalu’s commitment to a broader push to consolidate Nigeria’s international partnerships and leverage them for economic transformation.