China Urges Nigeria to Join Global AI Body After 88% Export Growth

By Omoyeni Ojeifo

China says Nigerian exports have increased by more than 88 per cent since introducing its zero-tariff policy for eligible products, opening the Chinese market to more Nigerian goods and creating opportunities for value addition and jobs.

Yu Dunhai, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, on Tuesday, disclosed the increase, saying the zero-tariff policy had significantly boosted exports from Nigeria to China.

The development came during a meeting between Dunhai and the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Sola Enikanolaiye, at the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Abuja.

The envoy also called on Nigeria to work towards becoming a founding member of the World Artificial Intelligence Organization following its participation at the body’s inaugural meeting, according to a statement emailed to Persecondnews by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.

In response, Enikanolaiye said the proposal would be referred to relevant government agencies for the necessary advice before Nigeria takes a position.

The minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the One-China Policy and expressed appreciation for China’s continued partnership in supporting Nigeria’s economic transformation agenda under President Bola Tinubu.

He also said the zero-tariff policy offers greater opportunities to expand Nigerian products in the Chinese market, enhance value addition and create more jobs for Nigerians.

Both countries reviewed the Nigeria-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, anchored on mutual respect, equality and a shared commitment to development.

They pledged to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure, industrialisation, energy, agriculture, education and people-to-people exchanges.

Nigeria and China also agreed to expand collaboration in science and technology, the digital economy and regional peace and security while sustaining high-level political consultations.

Both sides further agreed to explore new avenues of mutually beneficial economic engagement to strengthen the strategic partnership between Nigeria and China.

Dunhai congratulated Enikanolaiye on his appointment and reaffirmed China’s readiness to deepen practical cooperation with Nigeria across priority sectors.

The meeting coincided with the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the long-standing partnership.