David Nweze Umahi, Nigeria’s Minister of Works, has urged China to ramp up its investments and share advanced technological expertise to accelerate Nigeria’s economic development.
Speaking during a courtesy visit from Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunhai on Wednesday, Umahi stressed the need for a stronger partnership to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s infrastructure and economic agenda.
The Minister spotlighted ongoing collaborations with Chinese companies like CCECC, CHEC, CBC, and CGC, which are spearheading vital road and infrastructure projects across Nigeria.
“China has every reason to back Nigeria’s push for economic growth, especially in infrastructure,” Umahi said, calling on Beijing to deepen its commitment through substantial investments and technology transfers.
Umahi praised China’s globally renowned infrastructure achievements and appealed for the country to equip Nigerian engineers with cutting-edge skills through training programs in China. He also emphasized the urgency of finalizing a Naira swap deal, which he described as “imperative” for streamlining financial transactions and fostering closer economic ties between the two nations.
In response, Ambassador Yu Dunhai hailed Nigeria’s vibrant cultural heritage and entrepreneurial drive, likening its export prowess to China’s. He praised President Tinubu’s leadership in delivering essential infrastructure and reaffirmed China’s willingness to elevate the partnership. Highlighting Nigeria’s recent entry into the BRICS coalition, Yu expressed confidence in the Naira swap’s potential to boost bilateral trade and cooperation.
The discussions, held at the Ministry of Works, were attended by notable officials, including Minister of State Bello Mohammad Goronyo and Permanent Secretary Engr. Olufunso Adeniyi.
