General News
China Seeks Nigeria’s Founding Membership in New Global AI Organisation
By Iyojo Ameh
China has invited Nigeria to become a founding member of the proposed World Artificial Intelligence Organization (WAIO), in a move that could strengthen bilateral cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital technology and innovation.
The invitation was conveyed by the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, during a meeting with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja on Monday.
The meeting formed part of ongoing consultations under the Nigeria–China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and focused on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure, industrialisation, energy, agriculture, education and people-to-people exchanges.
During the talks, Ambassador Yu said economic ties between both countries had continued to deepen, noting that Nigerian exports to China had increased by more than 88 per cent following the implementation of China’s zero-tariff policy for eligible African exports.
He said Beijing was ready to broaden cooperation with Nigeria in strategic sectors and invited the country to join the newly established World Artificial Intelligence Organization as one of its founding members after participating in the body’s inaugural meeting.
Responding, Ambassador Enikanolaiye said the Federal Government would consult relevant ministries and agencies before taking a decision on the proposal.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the One-China Policy and commended China’s support for President Bola Tinubu’s economic transformation agenda.
The minister said the zero-tariff initiative had opened new opportunities for Nigerian exporters to access the Chinese market, increase value addition to local products and create more jobs.
Both countries also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening diplomatic engagement and expanding cooperation in emerging sectors, including the digital economy, artificial intelligence, science and technology, as well as regional peace and security.
The meeting also marked the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China, with both sides agreeing to sustain high-level consultations to advance their strategic partnership.
