Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, the Minister of Defence has announced the Federal Government’s intention to partner with the Chinese Government to address insecurity by focusing on technology transfer, intelligence sharing, and military training.
He stated this during the courtesy visit of the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of China to Nigeria at Ship House, Abuja.
The Minister highlighted the ongoing collaboration with Chinese companies in technology transfer and discussions on military equipment production.
Expressing enthusiasm for China’s interest in cooperating with Nigeria, he recounted successful discussions during a recent forum in China, emphasizing technology transfer, military training, and safeguarding the interests of Chinese corporations in Nigeria.
Highlighting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR’s commitment to private sector involvement in the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Minister cited the recent signing of the Defence Industry Act, fostering a level playing field for all investors.
Seeking Chinese investments in steel, power, and energy sectors, the Minister emphasized the importance of these investments for advancing Nigeria’s defence industry technology. He acknowledged Chinese companies’ potential and technology to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s growth.
The Chinese Ambassador, Cui Jian Chun, expressed China’s strategic interest in collaborating with Nigeria across military operations, economic cooperation, and international affairs. He underscored existing investments in security, education, and the economy, emphasizing Nigeria’s potential for new economic development.
Highlighting Nigeria’s abundant natural and human resources capable of supporting Chinese corporations, the Ambassador expressed China’s readiness to establish military industries in Nigeria to bolster local production of military equipment.
He reiterated that Chinese companies’ involvement would not only enhance Nigeria’s fight against insurgency and related crimes but also contribute to the government’s employment generation drive.
