Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu held productive talks with Dai Hegen, Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairman of China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC), at the CRCC headquarters in Beijing.
The meeting, part of Tinubu’s visit to the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, focused on enhancing collaboration in various infrastructure projects between Nigeria and China.
During the discussions, which included notable attendees such as governors from Kwara, Lagos, Kaduna, and Niger States, as well as key ministers from Nigeria’s government, the two sides engaged in cordial exchanges aimed at advancing existing projects and signing new cooperation agreements.
Dai Hegen expressed his pleasure in welcoming President Tinubu back to CRCC after their previous meeting in Abuja four months prior. He emphasized Nigeria’s significance as CRCC’s most important overseas market, highlighting the company’s commitment to localized development over the past 43 years, during which it has successfully executed over 300 projects in the country.
President Tinubu acknowledged CRCC’s substantial contributions to Nigeria’s infrastructure development, particularly praising major initiatives such as the Aka and Rai sections of the Nigeria Railway Modernization Project. He noted that these projects have provided tangible benefits to the Nigerian populace and underscored the critical role of a robust infrastructure network in fostering national prosperity.
“China Railway Construction is a trustworthy partner of Nigeria,” Tinubu stated, reaffirming the Nigerian government’s commitment to supporting the company’s future endeavours. He indicated that the Nigerian government aims to elevate bilateral cooperation in infrastructure and other sectors to new heights.
Dai Hegen also outlined CRCC’s plans, which include leveraging the “Belt and Road” initiative to further engage in Nigeria’s infrastructure development. He highlighted recent successes, such as the smooth operation of the Lekki Free Trade Zone and the positive impact of completed rail transit projects on local communities. Additionally, he noted the return of 200 Nigerian students sponsored by CRCC after completing their studies, emphasizing the company’s investment in local talent.
The meeting concluded with a shared vision for ongoing collaboration, setting the stage for a new chapter in Nigeria-China relations focused on mutual growth and development.
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