President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emphasised his administration’s dedication to linking remote areas in Nigeria with ports along the coast. He has further assured the completion of the railway connecting Lagos-Ibadan in the Southwest to the Federal Capital Territory. During the meeting at the State House, he shared this with Mr. Dai Hegen, the chairman of the China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC). The Nigerian president guaranteed Chinese business leaders that their investments in the country were secure and that his administration would continue to improve the business climate.
The president officially declared the country a secure place for investments, promising ongoing support from his administration to promote a thriving business environment, as stated by the Special Adviser to the President, Ajuri Ngelale. His administration expressed enthusiasm for enhancing business cooperation with the company and improving essential Infrastructure and facilities to benefit both parties. He observed their actions and found them aligned with the goals set forth. By reforming the Economy and implementing essential measures, they are paving the way for rapid growth.
Ex-Lagos governor commends the development of the Lekki Free Trade Zone.
Also, the CRCC and its subsidiary, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), are a prominent organisation and a top choice for collaboration. He is pleased by their partnership with the country, especially in rail construction. Efforts are being made to complete the railway connection linking the inland areas with the ocean ports. Also, the former Governor of Lagos State feels a sense of accomplishment in developing the Lekki Free Trade Zone. What was once a sunrise project has now transformed into a thriving hub.
Promoting stronger partnerships and relations is imperative to instil confidence in stakeholders. The president praised the corporation, particularly its subsidiary CCECC, based in Beijing, for its dedication to providing quality infrastructure projects in the country. The country’s leader urged the company to consider additional opportunities for collaboration, particularly in the field of solid minerals. Partnership opportunities are abundant for those looking to enhance value on both ends. Solid Mineral development presents a new avenue for promoting mutual growth and cooperation.
Transportation will be enhanced with all the rail projects.
Mutual reliance is essential for their collective success. The road to maintaining Sustainability requires collaboration from both parties. Together, they offer a sense of Security for investments within the country. As success is achieved domestically, they anticipate bolstering their international reputation. In his address, Mr. Dai Hegen, Chairman of the China Railway Construction Corporation, discussed various ongoing and finished projects the corporation undertook. The progress of the Kano-Kaduna Railway project currently stands at 39 percent completion, with an expected finish date in the second quarter of 2026.
Additionally, the Abuja-Kaduna and Lagos-Ibadan railways have transported around 9 million passengers since completion. Freight operations along the Lagos-Ibadan route have been operational since September 2023, with 180,000 tons of cargo successfully transported. In addition to the above, Mr. Hegen mentioned that the company had established collaborative agreements with 119 businesses, resulting in investments totalling $3 billion. This has led to the creation of 4,000 direct employment opportunities for individuals in the country, along with Tax payments of about $125 million.
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Lastly, the invitation to participate in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) presents a unique opportunity for President Tinubu to collaborate with the Chinese government on vital sectors such as agriculture, power, solid minerals, natural gas, and Renewable Energy technologies. They aim to enhance investments in these key areas by working together to drive the country’s Economic Growth and development. This partnership will strengthen ties between the two nations and pave the way for sustainable progress and prosperity for the people in the country.