CHINESE GOVERNMENT PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR NIGERIA’S PORT MODERNISATION

opeolumartinNovember 26, 202503 mins

London, 27 November 2025 —

The government of the People’s Republic of China has pledged strong technical and diplomatic support for Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to modernise and automate operations across its seaports, marking a significant step toward deepening bilateral cooperation in the maritime sector.

China’s Vice Minister of Transport, Mr. Li Yang, made the commitment during a bilateral meeting with Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, held on the sidelines of high-level maritime engagements in London.

Mr. Li Yang commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy as a dedicated ministry—describing the move as transformative for Nigeria’s maritime future. He further reaffirmed China’s diplomatic support for Nigeria ahead of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council election scheduled for Friday, 28 November.
Beyond technical collaboration, the Chinese Vice Minister announced China’s willingness to broaden maritime education and capacity-building opportunities for young Nigerians, signalling a long-term commitment to support human capital development in the sector.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser, Bolaji Akinola, Minister Oyetola expressed deep appreciation for China’s show of confidence and its pledge to support Nigeria’s IMO Council bid. He assured that Nigeria would reciprocate the goodwill and continue to nurture a mutually beneficial partnership.

The Minister highlighted Nigeria’s interest in expanding technical cooperation with China in several key areas, including:
Port digitalisation and automation
Maritime safety and security
Shipbuilding and ship-repair infrastructure
Inland waterways development
Seafarer training and certification
Blue economy investments
Maritime environmental protection
The meeting concluded with both countries reaffirming their commitment to strengthening maritime relations, advancing technical cooperation, and working toward the signing of a forthcoming bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The MoU is expected to outline new frameworks of collaboration and further solidify the maritime partnership between Nigeria and China.