China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) continues to make significant contributions to infrastructure development in Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau, as highlighted by recent developments in both countries.
In Nigeria, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, emphasized the need to deepen bilateral ties with China to further expand Nigeria's infrastructure projects under the platforms of the BRI and the Forum for China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) [b3961e17]. Nigeria has a $2 billion infrastructure funding agreement with China, and there are ongoing projects such as the Ajaokuta-Abuja-Kaduna-Kano gas pipeline, Lagos-PH-Maiduguri rail project, Abuja-Kano project, and coastal railway. These projects are crucial for Nigeria's development and will enhance connectivity and economic growth across the country [b3961e17]. The minister mentioned that he will be visiting China soon, and President Bola Tinubu is also planning a state visit to China. These visits demonstrate Nigeria's commitment to strengthening its partnership with China and furthering cooperation in various sectors, including infrastructure development [b3961e17]. Nigeria appreciates China's holistic approach to infrastructure development, which includes not only funding but also technology and know-how. This comprehensive approach has been instrumental in the successful implementation of infrastructure projects in Nigeria [b3961e17].
In Guinea-Bissau, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo and China President Xi Jinping have announced a new strategic partnership during a state visit. China will provide funding for key infrastructure projects in Guinea-Bissau, including agricultural modernization and mining. China will also grant market access to agricultural products from Guinea-Bissau and explore local processing of cashew nuts. China has already pledged to finance a major conference center, reconstruct 300km of roads, and build a new university campus in Guinea-Bissau. China will continue to provide technical support, send experts and medical teams, and offer government scholarships and training vacancies to Guinea-Bissau. Guinea-Bissau is a key Chinese ally, and China pays attention to small economies like Guinea-Bissau for their votes in international forums. China's presence can be seen in various infrastructure projects it has financed and built in Guinea-Bissau. The strategic partnership between Guinea-Bissau and China will enhance economic and geopolitical cooperation between the two countries [38bda67b].
Overall, China's Belt and Road Initiative continues to play a crucial role in infrastructure development in Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau, and the deepening of bilateral ties between China and these countries will further expand these projects and contribute to their overall development.