Nigerian Speaker Highlights Economic Reforms and Strategic Partnerships
Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has emphasized the nation’s commitment to implementing bold economic reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy, boosting investor confidence, and improving the ease of doing business. His remarks were made during the opening ceremony of the China International Import Expo (CIIE) 2025 at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre in Shanghai, China.
Tajudeen highlighted that the Nigerian National Assembly is actively working to support these reforms through robust legislation. He stated, “These reforms, backed by strong legislative support, are creating opportunities for innovation and local production.” The National Assembly has introduced key bills to align with this vision, including legislation mandating a minimum of 30% local value addition before export and reforms to make the Nigeria Export–Import Bank more responsive to exporters’ needs.
“These measures are designed to help Nigerian businesses take full advantage of platforms such as the China International Import Expo,” Tajudeen added.
Strengthening Nigeria-China Relations
The Speaker also underscored the role of the Nigerian Parliament in strengthening the country’s relationship with China. Under his leadership, the 10th House established the Nigeria–China Parliamentary Friendship Group, which has become a model for legislative diplomacy and cooperation.
“Through this platform, our two parliaments regularly engage to promote trade, technology, and cultural exchange. In the past year, we have welcomed high-level delegations from China, including Mr Zhang Qingwei, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, and Mr Hu Chunhua, Vice Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference.”
“These exchanges have produced a framework for sustained legislative collaboration and deepened the institutional foundations of our partnership,” he said.
Trade Volume and Mutual Benefits
Speaking on the trade volume between China and Africa, Tajudeen noted that in the first eight months of 2025 alone, China–Africa trade reached 222.05 billion dollars, representing a 15.4% increase from the previous year. For Nigeria, China remains its largest trading partner, with significant investments in critical sectors such as transport, telecommunications, energy, and manufacturing.
“We must move beyond a structure in which Africa exports raw materials and imports finished goods toward a partnership that prioritises industrialisation, technology transfer, and value addition,” he said.
Addressing U.S. Designation and Dialogue
On the recent designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern by the United States, Tajudeen affirmed that freedom of religion and belief is protected under Nigeria’s Constitution. He emphasized the need for direct engagement with the U.S. government to communicate Nigeria’s position through dialogue.
“I call on the United States to work with Nigeria as we tackle the real causes of tension, including poverty, exclusion, and insecurity. We can only make real progress by working honestly and collaboratively. Together, we must strengthen peace, promote democracy, and create a fairer and more stable world,” he added.
Global Trade Balance and Sustainable Growth
Tajudeen also called for addressing the broader question of balance in global trade. “True prosperity will only come when every nation, large or small, has a fair chance to grow and compete,” he said.
“For Nigeria, achieving this balance means developing our industrial base, strengthening infrastructure, and improving market access for our finished products. We call on our partners, including China, to continue supporting African economies through technology transfer, investment in processing industries, and fair trade policies that reward productivity and innovation.”
Future of Nigeria-China Cooperation
He concluded by stating that as the Nigeria–China relationship has matured into a comprehensive strategic partnership rooted in trust and shared aspiration, the National Assembly will continue to enact laws and support policies that make the cooperation more productive, balanced, and sustainable.