Nigeria committed to boosting relations

Nigeria and the People's Republic of China are continents apart but share salient similarities. The vastness and vitality of their economies, natural and human resources, as well as the uniqueness and beauty of their cultures and peoples are distinctive strengths that define both nations.

China is an important partner of Nigeria, and my administration is committed to strengthening relations on infrastructure, trade, finance, and energy. In the previous year, bilateral trade volume between both nations reached $22.6 billion. It is my belief that this amount can be surpassed with broader and mutually beneficial cooperation in key areas.

China is a very significant player in Nigeria's infrastructural development, particularly in the transportation sector. The recent construction of tracts of railways, roads, and certain public infrastructure is to its credit. As my administration advances on its infrastructure agenda, we will welcome sustained partnership, especially as regards critical infrastructure like the Ibadan-Abuja-Kaduna-Kano section of the Lagos-Ibadan Railway, and collaborative investments like the LAGRIDE initiative, jointly ventured by the Lagos state government and CIG Motors, which will herald a new e-mobility era in Africa.

Transport infrastructure is one of the primary agents of development as it facilitates the movement of people and goods, connects buyers and sellers, and opens up channels of investments, creating jobs and opportunities down the line.

My administration's vision for infrastructure is in furtherance of a holistic agenda of re-engineering Nigeria's economy for sustainable growth and ensuring the prosperity of the majority of its citizens.

I commend President Xi Jinping for his visionary leadership, which has positioned China as a leading economy and global leader. I am aware of the rare facility and efforts in leading a great nation like China, being the President of the largest economy in Africa and having to undertake bold reforms which have put Nigeria on a trajectory of economic bounce, growth, and development.

I thank President Xi for his invitation, and I believe my visit and participation in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation will further deepen and solidify bilateral relations between Nigeria and China.

The author is the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.