FG IN ITS EFFORTS TO ACTUALISE THE ADMINISTRATION’S 8-POINT AGENDA OF RENEWED HOPE, HAS PLEDGED ITS COMMITMENT TO STRENGTHEN BILATERAL RELATIONS WITH THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA FOR DEEPENED ECONOMIC COOPERATION THAT WILL BE MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL TO BOTH COUNTRIES
The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, who was represented by the Minister of State, Ministry of Steel Development, His Excellency Uba Maigari Ahmadu, stated this at the Mid Autumn Festival and Chinese National Day Celebration held in Lagos between 22nd to 24th September 2023.
The Minister reiterated Federal Government’s dedication to further strengthening economic cooperation with China that will lead to expanding trade opportunities and exploring new avenues for investment and technological cooperation. Noting that the Chinese business relationship with Nigeria will bring greater socioeconomic benefits to both nations.
Speaking further, he stressed the need for better investment climate, improved infrastructure development, eased business conditions that will open more opportunities in Steel Development, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, Technology as well as Communication. He emphasized Federal Government’s readiness to ensure responsible business practices that will further deepen the collaboration, as according to him, engaging in responsible business practices is crucial for long-term success.
Earlier, Mr. Guo Pengwen, the Commercial Consul at the Chinese Consulate, disclosed that both countries has a high volume of bilateral trade between them. According to him, Nigeria ranks third in bilateral trade and second in trade and importation. He noted that the exchange of goods and services has diversified Nigeria’s export base and strengthened overall economic stability in sectors such as infrastructure development, telecommunications, agriculture, energy, manufacturing, and transportation. Stating that these projects have not only improved Nigeria’s transport networks but also created employment opportunities and enhanced connectivity within the country.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Eric Ni, Chairman of the China Industrial and Commercial Enterprises Association, highlighted the flourishing economic cooperation between China and Nigeria. He said both countries have recognized the immense potential for mutual beneficial partnerships, leading to significant Chinese investments in various sectors of the Nigerian economy. Noting that these investments have contributed to economic growth, job creation, and technological advancement.
2024/2025 BUDGET APPRAISAL AND 2026 BUDGET DEFENCE DRIVE STEEL SECTOR OVERSIGHT
Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, Honourable of Steel Development (L) with Honorable Dr. Zainab Gimba (R), Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Steel Development during the Ministry's appearance before the House of Representatives Committee on Steel for the Appraisal of the 2024/2025 Budget Performance and the Defence of the 2026 Budget Proposal of the Ministry, held on Thursday 12th February 2026 in Abuja.
STEEL MINISTER AND SENATE COMMITTEE LEADERS MEET FOR 2024/2025 BUDGET APPRAISAL AND 2026 BUDGET DEFENCE AT NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Vice-Chairman, Senate Committee on Steel; Senator Patrick Ndubueze, Chairman Senate Committee on Steel and the Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu during the Ministry's appearance before the Senate Committee on Steel Development for the Appraisal of the 2024/2025 Budget Performance and the Defence of the 2026 Budget Proposal of the Ministry