Ex-trade negotiator says Tegbe’s appointment will strengthen Nigeria-China cooperation

Victor Lima, former chief trade negotiator of Nigeria, says the appointment of Joseph Tegbe as the director-general of the Nigeria-China strategic partnership (NCSP) is key to strengthening cooperation between the two countries.

In a statement on Friday, Lima commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Tegbe, whom he described as an “experienced policy strategist, economist, and technocrat with extensive expertise in economic planning, international trade, and strategic governance”.

“In a strategic shift toward a more robust economic and political partnership, Tegbe’s appointment signals Nigeria’s commitment to maximising the vast opportunities between both countries,” Lima said.

“The appointment is pivotal to enhancing bilateral cooperation in key sectors, such as trade, investment, infrastructure, technology, and foreign policy.

“As China solidifies its role as Nigeria’s top trade partner, NCSP under Tegbe will play a crucial role in ensuring that both nations benefit from their growing economic interdependence, which will be instrumental for the nation to fully capitalises on its growing partnership while safeguarding its national interests.”

Lima said Tegbe’s leadership would elevate Nigeria-China relations to new heights, shaping the country’s economic and diplomatic trajectory for years to come.

“The DG will also enhance the country’s bargaining power, by streamlining negotiations and ensuring coherent policies, and will strengthen its position in trade and investment discussions with China, Nigeria’s largest trading partner, with trade volume surpassing $20 billion annually,” he said.

The ex-trade negotiator described Tegbe’s appointment as timely, aligning with Nigeria’s efforts to leverage agreements reached during Tinubu’s visit to China and his participation in the forum on China-Africa cooperation (FOCAC).

He advised Nigeria to advocate for stronger African representation in global institutions, including the United Nations security council.

Regarding the one-China policy and diplomatic cohesion, Lima said Nigeria has remained steadfast in its support for the policy, strengthening its diplomatic ties with Beijing.

He, however, said recent attempts by Taiwan to increase its diplomatic presence in Nigeria pose a challenge.

The trade expert expressed optimism that Tegbe would play a key role in ensuring Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to the one-China policy.

“Under Tegbe’s leadership, Nigeria can deepen military cooperation with China to combat terrorism and insurgency in the Sahel region. Tegbe’s appointment is more than just a bureaucratic move, it is a strategic recalibration of Nigeria’s economic, trade, and foreign policy goals,” he said.

On September 29, 2024. Tinubu appointed Joseph Tegbe as director-general and global liaison for the Nigeria-China strategic partnership.

The president said Tegbe will lead the day-to-day operations of the partnership and engage with the Chinese counterparts to ensure that all deliverables are met.