Nigeria China marine cooperation deepens with \$2bn maritime deal, port expansion, and zero-tariff aquaculture exports to strengthen trade and jobs

Nigeria China marine cooperation is set to deepen following new agreements to expand port development, open fresh export markets, and grow Nigeria’s maritime economy.

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During a meeting in Abuja, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunhai reaffirmed commitments to strengthen ties.

Oyetola highlighted Nigeria’s 853 kilometers of Atlantic coastline and 10,000 kilometers of inland waterways as untapped assets for shipping, port operations, fisheries, and renewable ocean energy.

“Our ministry is determined to create the right framework for investment and partnership, and we believe that Nigeria has a lot to learn from China’s marine and blue economy development model,” Oyetola said.

Ambassador Yu pointed to the Lekki Deep Seaport — built by China Harbour Engineering Company — as proof of Sino-Nigerian collaboration.

The port, capable of handling ultra-large vessels, has eased congestion at Lagos ports, created jobs, and positioned Nigeria as a key West African hub.

He further revealed that Nigeria’s aquaculture exports will soon access the Chinese market duty-free under a zero-tariff agreement. This, he said, would boost local fish producers and expand bilateral food trade.

Beyond exports, Nigeria and China have also sealed a \$2bn maritime investment deal aimed at growing indigenous vessel ownership.

The initiative is expected to deliver \$20bn in freight contracts, \$200m for training, \$50m for training vessels, and over 2,000 new maritime jobs each year.

About 25,000 Nigerian seafarers will be globally certified under the scheme, creating a stronger domestic shipping ecosystem.

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Both parties agreed that deepened cooperation could unlock Nigeria’s vast marine potential, attract investment, and fuel sustainable economic growth.