The People's Republic of China has committed to providing substantial technical and diplomatic assistance to Nigeria's ambitious programme to modernise and automate operations at its seaports. This significant development signals a strengthening partnership between both nations in the critical maritime sector.
High-Level Meeting in London
The commitment was formally made 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. The discussions took place on the sidelines of maritime engagements in London, where both officials explored avenues for deeper cooperation.
Yang specifically praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy as a fully dedicated ministry. He described this strategic move as a transformative step that would significantly shape Nigeria's maritime future and economic potential.
China's Automated Port Expertise
Highlighting China's substantial experience in port automation, Yang revealed that China currently operates 52 fully automated ports, ranking among the highest numbers globally. He emphasized that China possesses the necessary capacity, extensive experience, and advanced technological expertise to support Nigeria's transition from manual and semi-automated systems to a completely digitalised port environment.
The Chinese official explained how automated ports in his country have delivered measurable benefits, including:
- Enhanced trade efficiency
- Drastic reduction in vessel turnaround time
- Strengthened security through smart surveillance systems
- Minimized human error using integrated digital platforms
Yang expressed confidence that a similar approach, carefully adapted to Nigeria's specific requirements and operational context, could unlock new levels of competitiveness for Africa's largest economy.
Comprehensive Support Package
China has expressed readiness to assist Nigeria in multiple technical areas, including:
- Deployment of smart port infrastructure
- Cargo-handling automation systems
- Digital gate systems
- Electronic customs processes
- Advanced maritime communication technologies
Beyond technical assistance, 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 designed to equip participants with cutting-edge industry knowledge.
Yang also extended a formal invitation to Dr Oyetola to attend China's Sustainable Transport Summit scheduled for next year. He revealed that a draft Memorandum of Understanding is currently being prepared to strengthen bilateral maritime cooperation between both countries.
Nigeria's Response and Strategic Requests
In his response, Nigeria's Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, expressed deep appreciation for China's continued partnership and its pledge to support Nigeria's IMO Council bid. He assured that Nigeria would reciprocate the goodwill demonstrated by the Chinese government.
Oyetola outlined Nigeria's desire to deepen technical collaboration with China in several strategic areas:
- Port digitalisation and automation
- Maritime safety protocols
- Shipbuilding and ship repair capacity
- Inland waterways development
- Seafarer training programmes
- Blue economy investments
- Maritime environmental protection
The Minister specifically sought China's support in combating Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing through modern monitoring technologies, satellite-based tracking systems, and joint enforcement initiatives. This collaboration aims to protect Nigeria's marine resources and ensure sustainable fishing practices.
This strengthened partnership represents a significant step forward in Nigeria's quest to transform its maritime sector into a modern, efficient, and competitive industry that can drive economic growth and position the country as a maritime hub in West Africa.
