Power minister wants swift implementation of Nigeria-China aquatic product's protocol - Blueprint Newspapers Limited
Spread the word Trade volume between Nigeria and China reached an impressive $18 billion in the first half of 2026, setting a strong economic momentum when compared to the $28 billion recorded for the entire. . .
Spread the word Trade volume between Nigeria and China reached an impressive $18 billion in the first half of 2026, setting a strong economic momentum when compared to the $28 billion recorded for the entire year 2025. Building on this surging commercial relationship, the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, has called for the swift implementation of the Nigeria-China Aquatic Products Protocol. He urged that the landmark agreement be urgently translated into higher export volumes, increased foreign exchange earnings, and expanded opportunities for local businesses across the country. The Minister made the call on Tuesday during a courtesy visit and reception following the signing of the protocol by the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, H. E. Yu Dunhai. The Ambassador was accompanied by Zhu Songbo, Chief of the Embassy’s Political Section, and the Deputy Director of the Economic and Commercial Section. Also present were the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS), Dr. Vincent Isegbe, alongside representatives of the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP). The historic Protocol, concluded after nearly five years of intense negotiation, grants eligible Nigerian aquatic products zero-tariff access to China’s massive 1. 4-billion-consumer market. Welcoming the envoy, Tegbe expressed gratitude for China’s continued support to the NCSP. He emphasized that the protocol’s success would fast-track other trade initiatives, including the Zero Tariff Agreement for African countries, and urged Nigerian exporters to act rapidly to maximize the opportunity. In response, Ambassador Yu reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to facilitating qualified Nigerian exports into China, describing Tegbe’s leadership as visionary and pragmatic. Highlighting a 35 percent rise in bilateral trade and an 80 percent surge in Nigerian exports in H1 2026, Yu assured the Minister of Beijing’s support to modernize and expand Nigeria’s power system. Furthermore, NAQS Comptroller-General Dr. Vincent Isegbe pledged compliance support, noting that world aquatic demand could double Nigeria’s exports to China. Atlantic Shrimpers, whose engagement with China dates to 2018, stated it is fully prepared to commence exports, having already secured buyers. Finally, all stakeholders agreed to prioritize swift implementation and measurable outcomes, with the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership continuing to drive deeper economic cooperation, increased exports, and sustainable long-term opportunities for Nigerian businesses. Spread the word