Prosper Okoye
Trade between China and Nigeria reached $22.3bn in the first ten months of 2025, China’s consul-general in Lagos has said.
Yan Yuqing told a media forum in Lagos that the figure represented a 30% increase compared with the same period last year.
She said Nigeria remained one of China’s largest investment destinations in Africa, with cooperation spanning infrastructure, agriculture and manufacturing.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelSpeaking at the Lagos Forum New Year Media Symposium, Ms Yan said Nigerian exports such as cashew nuts, sesame seeds, sorghum and dried ginger had gained increased access to the Chinese market.
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Nigeria was named Guest Country of Honour at two major trade events in China in 2025, including the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo and the China International Import Expo, she added.
Ms Yan also highlighted Chinese-backed projects in Nigeria, including the Lekki Deep Sea Port and the Lagos–Ibadan Railway, describing them as key to bilateral economic cooperation.
She said passenger numbers on the Lagos rail projects had reached record levels, while industrial activity continued in the Lekki and Ogun–Guangdong Free Trade Zones.
Looking ahead, the envoy said China planned to deepen cooperation with Nigeria in renewable energy, the digital economy and cultural exchanges in 2026, when both countries mark 55 years of diplomatic relations.
During the event, Ms Yan also criticised a recent United States arms sales package to Taiwan, saying it violated China’s sovereignty and the “One-China” principle.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory, a position disputed by Taiwan and its allies.
