In a landmark development for Nigeria’s energy sector, China National Chemical Engineering International Corporation Ltd. (CNCEC) has pledged its support for the $20 billion Ogidigben Gas Project in Delta State. The commitment marks a significant boost in Nigeria-China economic relations and reinforces Nigeria’s ambition to become a global energy powerhouse.
CNCEC President Li Zhenyi made the announcement during a high-level meeting with the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) delegation in Beijing. The delegation, led by Director-General Joseph Tegbe, aimed to deepen strategic partnerships and explore innovative funding mechanisms for Nigeria’s priority infrastructure projects.
“Our company is devoted to contributing to Nigeria’s industrialization and economic growth,” Zhenyi stated, emphasizing CNCEC’s alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for national development.
The meeting coincided with the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), which promotes investment and infrastructure development across Africa. The NCSP delegation engaged with major Chinese financial institutions, including China Exim Bank and China Development Bank, to explore funding solutions for critical Nigerian projects.
In addition, the delegation visited the headquarters of China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) and TBEA, a leader in power transmission solutions. These discussions highlighted potential collaborations on energy infrastructure, such as mini and micro-grid systems, to address Nigeria’s persistent power challenges.
A consultation with Prof. Justin Yifu, a former World Bank director and economist, further strengthened the delegation’s efforts. Yifu offered insights into policy reforms and strategies to attract more Chinese investment into Nigeria.
The NCSP team also toured the Yangshan Deep-Water Port, the world’s largest port facility, constructed by China Harbor Engineering Company, which previously developed Nigeria’s Lekki Deep Sea Port.
The Ogidigben Gas Project represents one of Nigeria’s largest energy investments, with potential to transform the country’s position in global energy markets. In addition to generating significant revenue, the project is expected to create thousands of jobs and drive economic diversification.
The NCSP delegation will continue its engagements with Chinese economic leaders in Shenzhen and Guangzhou to further accelerate the implementation of FOCAC initiatives.
This commitment by CNCEC underscores the growing strength of Nigeria-China relations and offers renewed optimism for Nigeria’s infrastructure and energy future.
