By Seun Ibiyemi
The Government of the People’s Republic of China has pledged robust technical and diplomatic backing for Nigeria’s ambitions to modernise and fully automate operations across its seaports, marking a deepening strategic partnership between both nations in the maritime sector.
The commitment was delivered during the week 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.
Mr Li Yang commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy as a standalone ministry, describing the move as a transformative step for Nigeria’s maritime future.
He highlighted China’s vast experience in digital port operations, noting that the country currently operates 52 fully automated ports, one of the highest figures globally.
He explained that China’s automated port systems have significantly boosted trade efficiency, reduced vessel turnaround time, strengthened security through smart surveillance, and minimised human error via integrated digital platforms.
Similar solutions, he said, could be adapted to Nigeria’s environment to unlock new levels of competitiveness for Africa’s largest economy.
China, he affirmed, stands ready to support Nigeria with smart port infrastructure, cargo-handling automation, digital gate systems, e-customs processes and advanced maritime communication technologies.
Mr Li Yang also reiterated China’s support for Nigeria in the upcoming International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council elections scheduled for Friday, 28 November, describing Nigeria as one of China’s strongest and most dependable partners in Africa.
He expressed satisfaction with the growing presence of Chinese companies in Nigeria’s transport and infrastructure sectors, noting their contribution to the country’s rail, road and port development.
Beyond infrastructure, he announced China’s willingness to expand maritime education and capacity-building opportunities for young Nigerians, including scholarships and participation in the Global Innovation in Transport Programme, a four-week intensive training initiative for emerging industry professionals.
He further invited Minister Oyetola to attend China’s Sustainable Transport Summit next year and disclosed that a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is being finalised to strengthen bilateral maritime cooperation.
Responding, Minister Oyetola expressed deep appreciation for China’s continued partnership and its pledge to support Nigeria’s IMO Council bid, assuring that Nigeria would reciprocate the goodwill.
He outlined Nigeria’s desire to deepen collaboration with China in port digitalisation, maritime safety, shipbuilding, inland waterways development, seafarer training, blue economy investments and maritime environmental protection.
The minister reaffirmed that Nigeria’s territorial waters have recorded zero piracy incidents over the last four years, with stability improving across the wider Gulf of Guinea due to enhanced surveillance, regional cooperation and the deployment of the Deep Blue security assets.
He sought China’s cooperation in combating Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing through satellite-based tracking technologies and joint enforcement measures, identifying fisheries and aquatic resource development as major pillars of Nigeria’s blue economy strategy.
The meeting concluded with both countries reaffirming their commitment to strengthening maritime ties, advancing technical cooperation and finalising the forthcoming bilateral MoU that will chart new areas of partnership between Nigeria and China.