China Pledge Support For Nigeria Port Modernisation

Di government of di People’s Republic of China don pledge technical and diplomatic support to Nigeria as di country dey push to modernise and automate dem seaport operations. Di commitment come from China Vice Minister of Transport, Mr Li Yang, during im bilateral meeting with Nigeria Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for London. Mr Li hail President Bola Tinubu for creating di Marine and Blue Economy Ministry as separate ministry, call am big step for Nigeria maritime future. E talk say China get 52 fully automated ports, one of di highest for di world, and di experience, capacity and technology wey fit help Nigeria shift from manual and semi-automated work enter full digitalised port system. E explain how China automated ports don boost trade efficiency, reduce vessel turnaround time, strengthen security with smart surveillance and cut human error with digital platforms. E talk say similar approach, tailor to Nigeria needs, fit boost competitiveness for Africa biggest economy.

Mr Li Yang also talk say China ready to help Nigeria deploy smart port infrastructure, cargo-handling automation, digital gate systems, electronic customs processes and advanced maritime communication technology. E reaffirm China support for Nigeria ahead of di International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council election on November 28 and praise di strong relationship between both countries. E happy with di many Chinese companies wey dey Nigeria rail, road and port construction sectors and say dem contribution dey help Nigeria infrastructure growth. E still announce scholarship and training opportunities for young Nigerians under China maritime education programme and invite Oyetola to China Sustainable Transport Summit next year, adding say draft MoU dey cook to strengthen maritime cooperation. Oyetola thank China for dia support and Nigeria IMO bid backing, and talk say Nigeria wan deepen collaboration with China for port digitalisation, maritime safety, shipbuilding, inland waterways, seafarer training, blue economy and environmental protection. E mention say Nigeria waters don record zero piracy for four years and ask China to help fight illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing with modern monitoring technology and joint enforcement. Di meeting end with both countries agreeing to strengthen maritime ties, boost technical cooperation and prepare to sign di new bilateral MoU.