Nigeria and China have renewed commitments to strengthen cooperation in the marine and blue economy sector, as Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, on Thursday received the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, in Abuja.
Welcoming the envoy, Oyetola praised the enduring bilateral ties between both nations, describing them as mutually beneficial and vital to economic growth. He highlighted Nigeria’s extensive maritime assets—including 853 kilometres of Atlantic coastline, over 10,000 kilometres of inland waterways, and abundant marine biodiversity—as major opportunities for trade, investment, and sustainable development.
According to the Minister, Nigeria’s maritime sector holds huge potential in shipping, port operations, fisheries, renewable ocean energy, tourism, and coastal infrastructure. He stressed that the government is creating a framework to attract investment while learning from China’s development model, particularly in areas such as port development, marine resource management, and tackling illegal fishing.
Ambassador Yu, in his remarks, said his visit was aimed at deepening China–Nigeria cooperation, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to China last year had already produced significant economic gains. He described the marine and blue economy as “the future,” citing the Lekki Deep Seaport—built by China Harbour Engineering Company—as a landmark project that has boosted trade, eased port congestion, and created thousands of jobs.
He further disclosed that China has approved zero tariffs on Nigerian aquaculture exports, a move expected to expand markets for local producers and enhance food trade ties. Talks are also underway on broader agreements to strengthen economic collaboration.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to building on the strong foundation of Sino–Nigerian relations. Oyetola expressed optimism that the partnership would unlock Nigeria’s blue economy potential, positioning the country as a key maritime hub in Africa.
The meeting underscores the growing importance of the marine and blue economy as a driver of sustainable growth and a cornerstone of Nigeria–China relations.
