The Nigerian government has been tirelessly striving to enhance the technology sector within the country in an effort to modernize various facets of the economy. A thriving Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sphere can act as a catalyst, providing rapid access to a plethora of ideas and experiences across diverse populations, communities, and cultures. This enhancement could facilitate quicker implementation of innovative ideas and simplify everyday life. Take, for example, the cashless policy approved by the Central Bank of Nigeria. A significant number of individuals are yet to adopt this practice, continuing to prefer traditional means of transferring funds over the counter, which contributes to overcrowded banking halls.
A significant development is on the horizon as China prepares to join hands with Nigeria to bolster the ICT industry in Nigeria through a strategic partnership, as reported by Punch. This promising development was disclosed during the recently concluded Overseas Training Course on Telecommunications Technologies for Nigeria.
The Economic and Commerce Counselor of the Office of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. Zhao Linxiang, shed light on China’s role and expressed a fervent desire to provide a much-needed boost to the Nigerian telecommunications sector. Mr. Linxiang stated: “We are ready to support Nigeria in telecommunications and ICT, and share the wealth of experience China has accumulated in this field. Through this training course, the Chinese government intends to cultivate highly trained professionals in Nigeria’s telecommunications and ICT sectors.”
Before this partnership came into fruition, several Nigerian officials and technicians were encouraged to participate in extensive training programs in China. Now, China’s government intends to prioritize the development of the ICT sector in Nigeria.
Expressing China’s commitment, Mr. Linxiang declared: “To address Nigeria’s need to expand telecommunications and ICT industries, we conducted the 2017 Overseas Training course on Telecommunications Technologies for Nigeria in Abuja. This year marks the first time the Chinese government has held this bilateral training in Nigeria. It’s evident that the ICT industry supports all other industries. For a nation to expand its production across all sectors, a vibrant ICT sector is a prerequisite. Therefore, our focus is on facilitating this country’s growth.”
The success of this collaboration hinges partially on Nigeria’s involvement. The Chairman of the Nigeria and China Relations Committee, Senator Yusuf, asserted that the National Assembly will make every possible effort to ensure a fruitful partnership.
In order to expedite this process, the Nigerian Parliament intends to put in place legislation to ensure seamless collaboration between the two nations. Senator Yusuf, echoing the shared sentiment, said, “As lawmakers, we stand ready to offer the Chinese government our full support for the benefit of both our nations”.
*This article was updated in 2025 to reflect modern realities.*
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