President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appealed to the People’s Republic of China to increase its $50 billion aid package for Africa and expand the $2 billion Nigeria-China currency swap agreement to enhance trade and infrastructure development.
During a meeting with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized Africa’s significant infrastructural needs and called for stronger project funding to foster economic growth.
The discussions aim to deepen bilateral ties between Nigeria and China.
“I say yes to the $50 billion support, but Africa’s needs are far greater. We value our relationship with China and seek deeper collaboration for rapid development,” Tinubu said in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
He also urged China to increase the currency swap deal, stressing that the current level was insufficient to support Nigeria’s economic programs.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi reiterated China’s commitment to Nigeria, including support for the Renewed Hope Agenda, counter-terrorism, and regional security. He also welcomed Nigeria’s potential membership in BRICS and pledged Chinese investments focused on employment generation and infrastructure.