Beijing, 4 September 2024 (TDI): China and Nigeria have formalized a nuclear energy collaboration, strengthening their strategic ties.
The agreement, signed at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing, aims to boost cooperation in the Belt and Road Initiative, human resource development, and nuclear energy.
This partnership is anticipated to enhance development, stability, and security in West Africa.
Nigeria has long been exploring the development of its nuclear energy sector.
China, already Nigeria’s largest bilateral lender with $5 billion in infrastructure loans as of March 2024, has been involved in significant projects including a deep-sea port and rail lines under the Belt and Road Initiative since their collaboration intensified in 2018.
Partnership’s Potential Highlighted
President Bola Tinubu, present at the summit with leaders from 50 African nations, highlighted the partnership’s potential to drive growth in Nigeria and across Africa, emphasizing stability and security.
Chinese President Xi Jinping noted that the enhanced coordination would boost China-Africa relations and advance collective progress among Global South nations.
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During his visit, President Tinubu secured additional commitments from Chinese firms, including the establishment of a joint solar PV test lab in Nigeria by Huawei and plans for an electric tricycle assembly plant.
This agreement aligns with China’s ambitious nuclear expansion plans, which will position it as the world’s largest nuclear generator by 2030.
For Nigeria, the partnership represents a significant step toward advancing its energy infrastructure and sustainable development goals.
