MINISTRY OF BUDGET AND ECONOMIC PLANNING WELCOMES NIGERIA CHINA BUSINESS COUNCIL
ABUJA, OCTOBER 17, 2023
The Nigeria-China Business Council (NCBC) paid a courtesy visit to Senator Atiku Abubakar Bagudu CON, the Honourable Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, on Tuesday, October 17th, 2023. During the visit, discussions were held regarding potential areas of collaboration between the council and the federal government.
Established during the tenure of late President Umar Musa Yar Adua, the NCBC has made remarkable progress over the years, attracting significant Chinese investments to Nigeria, particularly in the electronics and agriculture sectors. Impressed by Senator Atiku Bagudu’s accomplishments as the former Governor of Kebbi State, especially in rice farming, the council sought to explore areas of partnership in terms of planning.
Chief Dr. Matthew Uwaekwe, the National Coordinator/CEO of the Nigeria-China Business Council, conveyed the council’s eagerness to collaborate with the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning to support rice production, as well as investments in cassava and cocoa at both state and federal levels.
In response, Senator Atiku Bagudu expressed his gratitude for the efforts made by the Nigeria-China Business Council and commended their dedication to fostering balanced trade between the two nations. He also emphasized the immense potential for increased trade between Nigeria and China, citing examples such as the importation of soybeans and the production of ethanol from cassava and sugarcane.
Moreover, the Minister assured the council that their request would be thoroughly reviewed and discussed with the Minister of Trade and Investment to ensure cooperation and the realization of their shared objectives.
This visit by the Nigeria-China Business Council signifies the growing bilateral relationship between Nigeria and China, with a focus on fostering economic ties and exploring avenues for mutually beneficial partnerships. As both nations continue to strengthen their trade and investment cooperation, the prospects for sustainable growth and development are promising.
