By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
Chief Chidi Nkem-Aruma JP, a 2027 House of Representatives aspirant for Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency of Abia State, has called for stronger economic cooperation between Nigeria and China, with emphasis on technology transfer, local manufacturing and job creation.
Aruma made the call while speaking at a conference, where he said Nigeria must shift from dependence on imported finished goods to partnerships that would bring technology and production capacity into the country.
He said his participation at the conference was aimed at exploring opportunities for collaboration between Nigerian businesses and their Chinese counterparts, stressing that such partnerships could strengthen local industries and create new economic opportunities.
According to him, Nigeria should prioritize the importation of technology and expertise rather than relying mainly on finished products from abroad.
“I am looking at a situation where we reduce import and import technology,” Aroma said, while advocating greater support for cottage industries and local entrepreneurs.
He also identified direct air connectivity between Nigeria and China as another area that could strengthen bilateral trade, investment and people-to-people relations.
Aroma said attracting Chinese companies to establish production facilities in Nigeria would facilitate the transfer of technical skills, create employment and generate revenue for communities and governments.
Using Abia State as an example, he proposed the establishment of an aluminium fabrication company in Umuahia through a partnership with Chinese investors.
“If I bring a Chinese company to come and help to set up an aluminium fabrication company in Umuahia, that particular company will employ Igbo and Umuahia people. Products will be produced and we will create revenue,” he said.
The politician maintained that practical partnerships of this nature would enable Nigerian businesses to become more competitive while expanding employment opportunities and strengthening the country’s productive capacity.
He added that the 2027 political contest should focus not only on politics but also on presenting practical ideas capable of improving the economic fortunes of constituents and contributing to Nigeria’s broader economic development.
