FG Seeks Stronger China Partnership to Drive $1tn Economy Goal

The Federal Government has identified enhanced transport and logistics cooperation with China as a critical component of its strategy to transform Nigeria into a one trillion-dollar economy by 2030.

According to reports by The Nation, the Technical Adviser to the Vice President on Transportation, Logistics and Innovation, Dr. Segun Obayendo, made this known at the 2026 Ningbo Africa Trade and Logistics Cooperation Forum in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China.

Obayendo said the attainment of the Federal Government’s ambitious economic target will depend significantly on efficient transport infrastructure, resilient supply chains, and a modern logistics system capable of supporting trade and investment.

He noted that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is implementing reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at modernising Nigeria’s transportation sector and positioning the country as the logistics and distribution hub of West Africa.

According to him, infrastructure development, trade facilitation, and investment promotion remain central to the government’s economic agenda, adding that these objectives require an integrated and efficient transportation ecosystem.

Obayendo stressed that Nigeria’s quest for a one trillion-dollar economy extends beyond increasing production levels, emphasizing that the effective movement of goods, services, and people is equally vital to sustainable economic growth.

He highlighted Nigeria’s strategic location, large consumer market, abundant natural resources, and membership of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as major advantages that position the country to become a regional economic powerhouse.

The presidential aide, however, noted that unlocking Nigeria’s full economic potential would require sustained investment in critical infrastructure, including railways, seaports, highways, inland dry ports, and digital logistics platforms.

He also described China’s zero-tariff policy on exports from African countries as a significant opportunity for Nigeria to increase exports, strengthen local manufacturing, and attract additional investments.

Obayendo encouraged Nigerian businesses to leverage improved trade facilitation measures and logistics systems to enhance their competitiveness in international markets.

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He further called for deeper Nigeria-China collaboration in areas such as technology transfer, industrialisation, infrastructure development, innovation, and skills acquisition to create employment opportunities for millions of Nigerians.

The presidential aide also welcomed the proposed partnership between GK&A Logistics Services Limited and China’s Ningbo Foreign Trade Company Limited on port development and logistics infrastructure, describing it as a major boost to Nigeria’s logistics capacity and bilateral economic relations.

He urged governments, development partners, financial institutions, and private sector stakeholders to sustain collaboration in implementing agreements reached at the forum to ensure long-term economic benefits for both countries.