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 at its seaports, signalling a deepening partnership between both countries in the maritime sector.
The commitment was made on behalf of the government on Monday, November, by China’s Vice Minister of Transport, Mr Li Yang, during a bilateral meeting with Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, on the sidelines of maritime engagements in London.
Yang praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy as a fully dedicated ministry, describing the decision as a transformative step for Nigeria’s maritime future.
He noted that China currently operates 52 fully automated ports, among the highest number globally, adding that the country has the capacity, experience and technological expertise to support Nigeria as it transitions from manual and semi-automated systems to a fully digitalised port environment.
He explained that China’s automated ports have enhanced trade efficiency, drastically reduced vessel turnaround time, strengthened security through smart surveillance, and minimised human error using integrated digital platforms. He said a similar approach, adapted to Nigeria’s specific needs, could unlock new levels of competitiveness for Africa’s largest economy.
According to him, China stands ready to assist Nigeria in deploying smart port infrastructure, cargo-handling automation, digital gate systems, electronic customs processes, and advanced maritime communication technologies.
He commended the longstanding cordial relationship between both nations, noting that Nigeria has remained one of China’s strongest partners in Africa.
Yang expressed satisfaction with the presence of numerous Chinese companies operating in Nigeria’s rail, road and port construction sectors, adding that such cooperation has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s infrastructural development.
In addition to technical support, Yang announced China’s willingness to extend maritime education and capacity-building opportunities to young Nigerians.
This includes scholarships under China’s specialised maritime training scheme and participation in the Global Innovation in Transport Programme — a four-week intensive training programme designed to equip participants with cutting-edge industry knowledge.
He also invited Dr Oyetola to China’s Sustainable Transport Summit scheduled for next year and revealed that a draft Memorandum of Understanding is being prepared to strengthen bilateral maritime cooperation between both countries.
Responding, Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy expressed deep appreciation for China’s continued partnership and its pledge to back Nigeria’s IMO Council bid, assuring that Nigeria would reciprocate the goodwill.
Oyetola highlighted Nigeria’s desire to deepen technical collaboration with China in several strategic areas, including port digitalisation, maritime safety, shipbuilding and ship repair capacity, inland waterways development, seafarer training, blue economy investments and maritime environmental protection.
Oyetola sought China’s support in combating Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing through modern monitoring technologies, satellite-based tracking systems and joint enforcement initiatives.
