NIGERIA-CHINA ECONOMIC RELATIONS: EVALUATING CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS

Research Problem

The rapid expansion of Nigeria-China economic relations since 1971 presents a paradox of significant opportunity alongside profound structural challenges. While engagement has brought infrastructure development and trade growth, persistent issues like a massive trade imbalance, dumping of substandard goods, limited technology transfer, and concerning labour practices constrain Nigeria's developmental outcomes and threaten its economic sovereignty. This study critically evaluates these asymmetries and their strategic implications.

 

Methods/Theory

This study adopts a qualitative research design, relying on secondary data from books, journal articles, official reports, and credible media sources. A content analysis and comparative method were employed to interpret the dynamics of the relationship systematically. The analysis is guided by dependency theory, which frames Nigeria as a peripheral state, and realism, which highlights China’s pursuit of national interest and power maximization.

 

Results

The findings reveal a deeply asymmetrical relationship. Nigeria’s overreliance on imports of manufactured goods undermines domestic industries and exacerbates deindustrialization, while its exports remain limited to raw commodities. Chinese infrastructure investments and loans, though substantial, deepen debt exposure and show minimal evidence of meaningful technology transfer or fair labour practices, consolidating Nigeria's dependent position.

 

Conclusion

The relationship is structurally skewed in China's favour, reflecting both the systemic inequalities explained by dependency theory and the strategic power pursuit illuminated by realism. Without strategic recalibration, Nigeria risks deepening its dependency.

 

Key Contribution to Knowledge

This paper provides a critical, Nigeria-specific analysis that integrates dependency and realist theoretical perspectives to offer a nuanced understanding of the power dynamics and structural constraints within the bilateral engagement.

 Recommendations

The study recommends Nigeria prioritize industrialization, enforce import regulations to curb substandard goods, negotiate binding technology transfer clauses, ensure transparent and sustainable loan agreements, and adopt a principle of reciprocity in its economic diplomacy with China.