China has invited Nigeria to become one of the founding members of the newly established World Artificial Intelligence Organization following the country’s participation in the group’s inaugural meeting.
The invitation was presented by the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, during a visit to the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Abuja on Monday, July 27, 2026.
During the meeting, Ambassador Yu spoke on the strengthening economic relationship between both countries, noting that Nigerian exports to China have risen by more than 88 percent since the introduction of China’s Zero Tariff Policy for eligible African exports.
He also reaffirmed China’s commitment to expanding practical cooperation with Nigeria across key sectors of mutual interest.
Responding to the proposal, Ambassador Enikanolaiye said the Federal Government would consult the appropriate agencies before taking a position on Nigeria’s membership of the World Artificial Intelligence Organization.
The minister also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the One China Policy and commended Beijing for supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reform agenda.
According to him, China’s zero tariff policy presents a valuable opportunity for Nigerian businesses to increase exports to the Chinese market, promote local value addition and create more employment opportunities.
News gathered that both diplomats also reviewed the long standing relationship between Nigeria and China, with discussions centered on the Nigeria China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Their talks covered areas including trade, investment, infrastructure, industrialization, energy, agriculture, education and people to people exchanges.
The meeting also coincided with the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to sustained high level engagement while exploring new areas of cooperation in the digital economy, science, technology and regional security.
