Nigeria and China have initiated high-level bilateral discussions to strengthen trade ties and explore tariff reductions, seeking to counter the impact of rising global trade barriers.
The talks, held on the sidelines of the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, involved Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Yusuf Tuggar and China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who focused on deepening economic cooperation.
The negotiations come as both nations face significant trade disruptions stemming from U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff policies.
The U.S. had imposed a 145% levy on Chinese exports and a 14% tariff on Nigerian goods, prompting both countries to seek alternative strategies to bolster their economies.
“Our discussions focused on expanding economic cooperation through improved trade, reduced tariffs, and increased investment,” Tuggar stated.
“We also explored avenues to strengthen strategic partnerships, enhance infrastructure collaboration, and reaffirm our shared commitment to mutual respect and balanced, long-term development.”
On the 100th day of President Trump’s hypothetical second term, China released a provocative propaganda video titled “Never Kneel Down!”, directly challenging U.S. leadership.
The video, posted by the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s official X account, coincided with Trump’s milestone day in office.
It featured dramatic imagery of storms, war, and historical events, symbolizing China’s defiance against U.S. pressure.
The narration in the video included pointed statements such as, “Bowing to a bully is like drinking poison to quench thirst,” and portrayed China as a nation unwilling to yield to external pressures.
As Nigeria deepens its relationship with China, the ongoing bilateral talks signal a strategic shift aimed at bolstering economic resilience amid global trade uncertainties.
These discussions also align with Nigeria’s broader efforts to strengthen trade partnerships within the BRICS bloc, which now includes Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the UAE alongside its original members.
