The governor of the state of Kano, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has said that the bilateral trade between China and Nigeria reached more than $ 22.6 billion in 2023, and Kano has greatly benefited from this relationship.
The governor stressed that about 55 percent of the current infrastructure projects in Kano are being managed by Chinese companies, referring to the construction of five main high steps, four of which were built by Chinese companies.
Speaking at the Government's house in Kano on Thursday while organizing the Chinese delegation led by the Chinese ambassador to Nigeria, Dunhai Yu, Governor Yusuf described Kano as a strategic shopping center with immense investment opportunities.
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He expressed gratitude for his contributions and ensured continuous cooperation.
According to him, “Chinese companies have played an important role in the development of infrastructure within the State.”
Therefore, he reaffirmed the state's commitment to strengthen economic and infrastructural collaboration with China, inviting Chinese investors to take advantage of the state -owned business environment.
He said that “Kano is a historic shopping center in sub -Saharan Africa and an industrial center with a business environment conducive to Chinese investors. The State offers important economic advantages, including access to raw materials, a strategic location and large markets.”
Governor Yusuf recognized the global economic leadership of China and his notable advances in infrastructure, banking, insurance and industrialization.
He also recognized China's important contributions to the economy of Nigeria, citing trade, investment, infrastructure and financial assistance as key collaboration areas.
Governor Yusuf also announced plans to present a five-year multisectoral investment strategy (2025-2029) to attract more Chinese investors. “We have attractive incentives that will not only attract, but will also retain investments in the state of Kano,” he said.
The governor emphasized even more the importance of educational collaboration, praising China for their previous support in the sponsorship of Kano students for studies in Chinese universities.
Yusuf assured the Delegation of Kano's preparation to facilitate investment opportunities that would improve economic growth and strengthen diplomatic ties.
He urged the Chinese government to continue and expand scholarship programs to improve the development of human capital and promote better communication between commercial communities in both regions.
Previously, Ambassador Dunhai Yu expressed his appreciation for the warm reception, describing Kano as a key economic and cultural center in West Africa with more than 1,000 years of rich history.
He said: “Kano is home to many Chinese investors and businessmen, and everyone feels welcome here. The relationship between China and Kano is based on mutual respect and beneficial cooperation in infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing and education. “
The ambassador highlighted China's commitment to expand associations with Kano, particularly in agriculture, infrastructure, trade and education development.
He revealed plans to facilitate the investment of the province of Shandong, one of the largest economies in China, in the agricultural sector, irrigation systems and Kano's manufacturing industry.
Yu also reaffirmed China's willingness to support Nigeria's impulse for economic diversification, particularly through investments in renewable energy and manufacture of electric vehicles.
“China leads the world in electric vehicles and renewable energy, and we are ready to collaborate with Kano to advance their industrialization efforts,” he said.