The Minister of State for Works, Mohammed Bello Goronyo, has applauded the partnership between Nigeria and China as a driver of growth in infrastructure, transportation, mining and knowledge transfer. Speaking at the CAETE Exhibition in Africa (Nigeria) and the 18th China Engineering and Technology Expo in Abuja, Goronyo emphasized the nations’ shared commitment to sustainable development through strategic cooperation.

Galaxy Television reports that the Minister highlighted Nigeria’s National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP), which aims to increase infrastructure’s GDP contribution from 30-35% to 70% by 2043, prioritizing investments in transportation, energy, healthcare and water systems. He noted China’s significant role in projects like the Abuja-Kaduna Railway, Lagos – Ibadan Expressway and renewable energy initiatives, which have boosted connectivity, commerce and local capacity.

He also stressed the importance of green infrastructure, smart cities, and innovative financing mechanisms to ensure sustainability and urged for greater technical training and public-private partnerships. Chairman of the Chinese Community in Nigeria, Mr. Erie Ni emphasized that the event is of key importance and would deepen the relationship between the two countries, fostering immense innovation, growth and sustainable development.

He stated that over the years, China and Nigeria have been involved in a dynamic and mutually beneficial relationship as Chinese enterprises, engineers and investors have been privileged to contribute to Nigeria’s development in various sectors including construction, telecommunications, energy and transport. The Director General and Global Liaison, the Nigeria – China Strategic Partnership Reached by the Two Countries, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe reiterated the need for enhanced collaboration, cultural exchange and trade to cement a prosperous future for both nations.