With Presidents Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Xi Jinping standing as witnesses, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu yesterday in Beijing, signed two major agreements with Chinese firms to boost transportation and energy development of the state.

Chinese firm China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) has been signed on to construct the Lekki-Epe Link Bridge.

In the other agreement a 50Megawatt solar power will be built to service the energy needs of tertiary institutions in the state.

Sanwo-Olu made this known on his official X handle.

He said: “We believe that good roads and transport infrastructure are essential for the growth of Lagos State, and to support this, we signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CCECC to build the Lekki-Epe Link Bridge in the Lekki-Epe axis of Lagos State.

“Our strategic transport masterplan is not just a blueprint; it’s a commitment to improving the lives of all Lagosians. By focusing on key road networks, we aim to reduce traffic congestion and create a seamless commuting experience, all while supporting economic growth.

“We have had discussions about awarding the EPC contract to CCECC, and feasibility and design studies for the project have been conducted.

“These solar systems, expected to generate about 50 MW, will provide cleaner and more affordable electricity. This project demonstrates our commitment to sustainable energy as a key part of our economic development.”

Nigeria, China pledge to protect citizens’ rights, deepen sub-national cooperation

Nigeria and China have committed to protecting the rights of each other’s citizens while on their respective territories, in a bid to strengthen bilateral relations.

According to a joint statement issued by both nations, the commitment aims to create a favorable business environment for companies from both countries.

The joint statement was made on Tuesday after a meeting of leaders of both countries; President Tinubu and President Jinping.

President Tinubu is in China on the invitation of President Jinping for a state visit and the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

In addition to protecting citizens’ rights, both countries have expressed support for the establishment of more friendly relations between Nigerian and Chinese provinces and states, as well as municipalities.

This move is expected to expand and deepen cooperation at the sub-national level.

The joint statement also highlighted the commitment of both nations to support the World Trade Organization (WTO) focused multilateral trading system, oppose trade protectionism, and promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation.

Both countries have also pledged to create a transparent and non-discriminatory business environment for cooperation, signaling a new era of economic collaboration and people-to-people exchanges between Nigeria and China.

China backs ECOWAS on security

In a significant boost to Nigeria’s regional influence, China has promised to support the country in playing a leading role in ECOWAS affairs, particularly in the fight against terrorism.

According to the statement  China commended Nigeria’s efforts in bringing stability to the region and pledged to support its leadership role in managing differences and combating terrorism.

Nigeria and China have agreed to enhance international cooperation on financial intelligence to fight money laundering and other financial crimes.

According to the statement, the agreement aims to support Nigeria’s efforts to safeguard the order of its financial and foreign exchange markets and crack down on financial crimes.

In a significant boost to Nigeria’s economy, China has expressed readiness to allow the importation of Nigerian products of good quality into its market.

According to the statement, China welcomes Nigeria to expand trade between the two countries through various platforms, including the China International Import Expo, China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, and the China Import and Export Fair.