Trade between China and Nigeria has crossed the $22 billion mark, according to China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, who made the disclosure on Thursday.
Yu also revealed that about 10,000 Nigerians have benefited from training and exchange opportunities offered by China.
The ambassador spoke at the 1st Annual China-Nigeria Government Exchange Program Alumni Reunion Gala held in Abuja, where he noted that trade volume recorded in 2025 has exceeded that of the previous year.
Yu further disclosed that China’s direct investment in Nigeria rose by 130 per cent, while Nigeria’s exports recorded an increase of more than 200 per cent.
He said, “I think this bilateral relations not only has a political meaning, but it’s actually more about people-to-people relations. And I’m very happy to let all of you know that our trade volumes, this year, already surpassed 22 billion U.S. dollars.”
“That’s already surpassed the total amount of last year. And China’s direct investment to Nigeria increased by 130%. And another good news is Nigeria’s export increased by over 200%.”
The envoy added that China is working closely with Nigerian authorities to implement the zero-tariff policy announced in June 2025.
According to Yu, the policy is designed to boost Nigeria’s exports to China while improving the country’s standing in the global trading system.
He said, “We are working very closely with the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to implement the zero tariff policy, which the Chinese government announced last June. That is, China is going to provide zero tariff for 100% of products from all 53 African countries, including Nigeria, to China.
“And I believe that this is going to expand Nigeria’s export to China and contribute also to the enhancing of Nigeria’s position on the international global system, the trading system.”
Yu noted that both countries are also collaborating on several other projects aimed at delivering mutual benefits.
He explained that Nigeria and China are natural partners, stressing that both nations share common interests.
He added that the two countries must cooperate to strengthen global governance, ensure better representation for African countries, and amplify their voices on the international stage.
Expressing confidence in the partnership, Yu said China and Nigeria share many similarities, adding that “China’s today is Nigeria’s tomorrow.”
On the essence of the event, the ambassador said, “is to provide a platform for our alumni who attended the Chinese Government Exchange Programme to stay connected, to exchange ideas, and thus to contribute to China-Nigeria relations.
“Indeed, over the years, China has provided over 10,000 opportunities for the training programme for Nigerians.”
He explained that the training programmes focus on capacity building and the sharing of experiences in governance, poverty reduction, manufacturing, agriculture, public health, trade, investment, science, technology, innovation, food economy, and the digital economy.
Yu added that the initiatives not only strengthen individual skills but also support Nigeria’s economic and social development.
He noted that alumni of the exchange programme are drawn from across the country, including Abuja, Lagos, Maiduguri, and Ibadan.
