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China has described Nigeria as its largest engineering contracting market in Africa, highlighting the growing economic and infrastructure relationship between both countries. The disclosure was made in Beijing by Li Hengtian, Deputy Director of the China International Communications Group, during the opening of a seminar for renowned Nigerian commentators. 
According to Li, Nigeria is also China’s second-largest export market, third-largest trading partner, and one of its biggest investment destinations on the African continent. He noted that cooperation between both nations has continued to expand across infrastructure, trade, education, energy, and industrial development, with more Chinese firms participating in major Nigerian projects while increasing numbers of Nigerian students study in Chinese institutions. 
Chinese officials said bilateral relations between both countries have strengthened significantly in recent years, especially under the Belt and Road Initiative framework. Trade between Nigeria and China reportedly exceeded $28 billion in 2025, while Chinese direct investment into Nigeria rose sharply during the same period. Major China-backed projects in Nigeria include the Lagos-Ibadan Railway, Lekki Deep Sea Port, and several industrial and free trade zone developments in Lagos and Ogun states. 
Li also stressed the role of the media in strengthening China-Nigeria relations, urging journalists and commentators from both countries to challenge stereotypes and promote balanced narratives about bilateral cooperation. The remarks come as China continues expanding its economic influence across Africa through infrastructure financing, engineering contracts, manufacturing investments, and strategic trade partnerships. 
