China’s zero-tariff policy benefits 53 African countries – Official

Mr Joseph Tegbe, the Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), says China’s zero-tariff policy is benefiting the 53 countries in Africa.

Tegbe indicated this during a visit by a delegation from the Central Party School of the Communist Party of China (CPC), according to a statement.

The Chinese delegation was led by Prof. Gong Weibin, Vice-President of the Central Party School, Yu Dunhai, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, and senior officials from several key departments.

The Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership is a transformative initiative seeking to deepen economic, trade, and investment relations between the two countries.

The initiative is also designed to bolster trade flows across Nigeria’s key projects, including the agriculture value chain development and partnerships with leading Chinese vehicle manufacturing firms.

“This is to strengthen cooperation in governance, public service reform, investment, and strategic development planning,” he said.

He stated that Nigeria remains committed to the One China Policy and aspiration to establish a forward-looking development partnership built on mutual respect and shared prosperity.

He highlighted Nigeria’s active engagement in China-Africa initiatives, such as the FOCAC Inter-ministerial Meeting and the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, while commending China’s efforts in promoting South-South cooperation.

For his part, Gong gave an overview of the Central Party School’s structure and mandate, saying it plays a critical role in shaping governance and public administration in China.

He explained the School is responsible for the capacity building of civil servants and party leaders, theoretical and ideological research, development of social sciences rooted in local context and policy advisory services.

“The School is a pillar of China’s civil service education system and a key think tank influencing national policy with not less than 3,600 local branches and a faculty strength exceeding 100,000.

“Many faculty members also hold senior roles within the Chinese government. Notably, President Xi Jinping previously served as the School’s Principal for five years,” Gong said.

The vice-president extended invitation for NCSP officials to visit the Central Party School in Beijing, to further deepen institutional collaboration and knowledge sharing.

NCSP was established following agreements reached between President Bola Tinubu and President Xi Jinping at FOCAC 2024, to ensure Nigeria is not merely a trading partner but a key development ally of China.