Nigeria Moves To Modernise Roads With China’s High-Tech Backing

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to deepening strategic ties with the People’s Republic of China as part of ongoing efforts to upgrade Nigeria’s road infrastructure and enhance the technical competence of local engineers. This was disclosed by the Minister of State for Works, Barr. Mohammed Goronyo, during a meeting in Abuja with a high-level delegation from CGGC Global Plc.

According to Ireporter Online, the minister emphasized the government’s determination to transform the nation’s road network through improved engineering practices and advanced technical support. He explained that Nigeria is seeking China’s partnership in training engineers, supplying modern construction and maintenance equipment, and transferring cutting-edge road technologies capable of supporting long-term infrastructure sustainability.

Goronyo noted that empowering Nigerian engineers with contemporary technical skills was vital, adding that China’s remarkable record in infrastructure expansion makes the collaboration strategically important.

In his response, the Vice President of CGGC Global Plc, Mr. He Yongjun, expressed strong interest in contributing to Nigeria’s infrastructure drive. He acknowledged the company’s expertise and readiness to support the country’s ambitions but requested more direct access to project opportunities. He also expressed concerns about operating exclusively through the Public–Private Partnership model, though it remains the government’s transparent and approved framework for contract acquisition.

Despite these reservations, Yongjun reiterated CGGC’s willingness to partner closely with Nigeria on critical infrastructure projects.

The meeting was attended by top officials of the Ministry of Works, including the Director of Human Resource Management representing the Permanent Secretary, as well as other directors and technical personnel. Also present was the Managing Director of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, Engr. Dr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi, alongside senior FERMA representatives.

The Chinese delegation was led by Mr. He Yongjun and included Mr. Song Yunwu, Security Director; Ms. Tian Yimeng, Director of the Africa Marketing Department; Mr. Peng Changbing, Director of the Project Management Department; and several other senior executives.

Goronyo reaffirmed that Nigeria’s objective goes beyond immediate road development, stressing that the long-term vision is to build a highly skilled local workforce capable of implementing advanced engineering technologies without excessive dependence on foreign expertise. He added that strategic international partnerships such as this would help institutionalize global best practices and ensure durable, efficient road infrastructure across the country.