Nigeria and China have taken a significant step toward strengthening economic cooperation, with business leaders from both countries committing to deeper collaboration in exports, energy, healthcare, artificial intelligence, agriculture and industrial development. The renewed partnership was highlighted at the Nigeria-China Investment Summit 2026 in Lagos, where investors, entrepreneurs and industry stakeholders gathered to explore opportunities capable of driving long-term economic growth and job creation.
Organised by the Nigeria-China Investment Club (NCIC), the summit focused on building strategic partnerships that can accelerate investment and industrialisation across Nigeria. Speaking at the event, NCIC President, Dr. Chidi Uleli, described the collaboration with the China International Business Development Committee (CIBDC) as a major opportunity to attract private-sector investments into critical sectors of the Nigerian economy. He noted that the Chinese organisation represents millions of members, including hundreds of high-net-worth investors with interests spanning infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, digital payment systems and renewable energy.
According to Uleli, the goal is to move beyond discussions and deliver practical results through direct business engagements and investment commitments. He stressed that the initiative would reduce bureaucratic barriers and create faster pathways for trade and cross-border commerce. He also highlighted the enormous potential of the Chinese consumer market, saying even a small percentage of Chinese demand for Nigerian products could significantly boost local economies and increase revenue generation across the country.
Chinese representatives at the summit expressed strong confidence in Nigeria’s economic potential. Executive Chairman of the China Association for International Economic Cooperation, Sarah Lee, described Nigeria as one of Africa’s most promising investment destinations. She revealed plans to support the establishment of local industries in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure, construction, education and renewable energy. Lee said the partnership would leverage Chinese technology, equipment and industrial expertise to help create factories, industrial parks, hospitals and universities that would stimulate economic activity and improve living standards.
Industry stakeholders also called for greater technology transfer and support for Nigeria’s power sector to strengthen local production capacity. Solomon Iwu-Ejike, Director of Carbonex and a partner of the Nigeria-China Investment Club, urged Chinese investors to help address Nigeria’s electricity challenges and improve manufacturing standards. The summit concluded with discussions on expanding cooperation in frontier artificial intelligence, export promotion, medicine, manufacturing and renewable energy, reinforcing both nations’ commitment to building a stronger economic future through strategic investment and innovation.
source: punch
