Nigeria and China have taken a significant step toward strengthening bilateral economic relations with the signing of a new Framework Agreement on Economic Partnership for Shared Development.
The agreement was formalized in Yaoundé by Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, and China’s Minister of Commerce, Wang Wentao.
Described as a non-binding and flexible arrangement, the framework is designed to guide future negotiations and deepen cooperation between both countries. It outlines four key priority areas: trade facilitation, inclusive and green growth, resilient supply chains, and the digital economy. Specific areas of collaboration are expected to be developed progressively based on mutual agreement.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Oduwole emphasized that the agreement provides a structured platform for advancing Nigeria-China economic ties in line with Nigeria’s development priorities. She noted that Nigeria’s trade strategy is focused on delivering tangible benefits for its citizens, particularly through industrialization, job creation, and export diversification.
According to the minister, the partnership aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s role in regional and global value chains while promoting inclusive and sustainable growth.
The agreement also formed part of Nigeria’s broader push to expand its trade and investment footprint, improve competitiveness, and position itself as a key economic hub in Africa, in line with continental economic integration efforts.
Analysts said the framework could open new opportunities for collaboration between Africa’s largest economy and one of its biggest trading partners, particularly in emerging sectors such as the digital economy and green development.
