The House of Representatives committee on China-Nigeria relations was established with the primary aim of strengthening the friendship and cooperation between both nations, according to Chairman Hon Jaafar Yakubu, during an exclusive interview at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.
Hon Jaafar, who represents the Bali, Gassol federal constituency of Taraba State, elaborated on the reasons behind the committee’s formation. He explained that the decision to create this committee was made under the leadership of Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. The driving force behind its establishment was the significant interest that China has in Nigeria, along with the desire to facilitate parliamentary and trade relations between the two countries.
“In previous assemblies, there was no committee of this nature, but because of the importance of our bilateral trade with China and the interest China has in Nigeria, the 10th assembly decided to create this special committee,” he stated.
The committee’s main objectives include fostering friendship between Nigeria and China, promoting legitimate business activities, and strengthening parliamentary and bilateral relations. Hon Jaafar highlighted the committee’s role in providing a platform for the Chinese to engage in lawful business endeavors and enhance the relationship between the two nations.
He also touched upon the issue of mining in Nigeria, emphasizing that the concept of legal and illegal mining often involves cooperation with local communities. He clarified that many Chinese firms are engaged in lawful and legitimate mining operations in Nigeria, and his committee intends to investigate and address any illegal mining activities.
Furthermore, Hon Jaafar expressed the committee’s commitment to working closely with relevant stakeholders to educate Chinese investors about the laws governing mining and business activities in Nigeria, thus ensuring compliance with the regulations.
Regarding the economic significance of the mining sector, the legislator emphasized that Nigeria has the potential to earn approximately $3 billion annually from solid minerals. He highlighted the positive impact of Chinese investment in the mining industry, stating that over 100,000 Nigerians are currently employed by various Chinese mining companies. This, in turn, translates to significant poverty reduction for these employed individuals and their families.
Hon Jaafar concluded by mentioning the committee’s aspirations to engage in further international collaboration. They hope to visit the Chinese parliament and invite their counterparts from China to Nigeria to facilitate discussions on governance and people-to-people cooperation.
Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1971, Nigeria and China have maintained a mutually beneficial cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, foreign policy, education, and technology transfer.
