Africa–China Partnership Can Accelerate Industrialisation, Create Millions of Jobs – Dr Segun Ogunnaike

NINGBO, Zhejiang Province, China | July 27, 2026

PAISCI Executive Director urges stronger trade, technology transfer and industrial collaboration to unlock Africa’s economic potential.

The Executive Director of the Pan-African Institute for Supply Chain Innovation (PAISCI), Dr. Segun Ogunnaike, has called for deeper Africa–China economic cooperation anchored on industrialisation, value addition, technology transfer and supply chain innovation, saying stronger collaboration between both regions holds the key to creating millions of jobs, expanding manufacturing and accelerating sustainable economic growth.

Speaking at the 2026 Ningbo–Africa Trade & Logistics Cooperation Forum in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China, Dr. Ogunnaike said Africa must strategically reposition itself from being predominantly an exporter of raw materials to becoming a competitive manufacturing and industrial hub integrated into global value chains.

“The future of Africa–China relations must go beyond buying and selling goods. It should be driven by industrialisation, technology transfer, local manufacturing and investments that create jobs, strengthen industries and deliver shared prosperity for both regions,” Dr. Ogunnaike said.

He observed that Africa’s abundant natural resources, youthful workforce and expanding consumer market complement China’s globally competitive manufacturing capacity, advanced technology and logistics expertise, creating enormous opportunities for mutually beneficial economic cooperation.

According to him, Nigeria is strategically positioned to become a major beneficiary of this partnership because of its geographic location, entrepreneurial population and access to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which provides a gateway to one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.

Dr. Segun Ogunnaike noted that China’s zero-tariff policy for exports from African countries presents a unique opportunity for Nigerian businesses to expand exports, diversify production and improve competitiveness in international markets.

“China’s zero-tariff policy offers Africa an opportunity to move up the global value chain. Our responsibility is to build efficient logistics systems, strengthen manufacturing capacity and create an environment where African businesses can compete successfully in international markets,” he stated.

He identified agriculture, agro-processing, manufacturing, mining, transport and logistics, industrial technology and the digital economy as priority sectors capable of transforming Africa’s economic relationship with China.

The PAISCI Executive Director stressed that achieving these objectives would require sustained investment in modern logistics infrastructure, efficient ports, warehousing facilities, digital trade platforms and integrated supply chains capable of supporting increased industrial production and cross-border trade.

He also underscored the importance of research, innovation and institutional collaboration, describing partnerships among governments, universities, research institutions and the private sector as essential for developing the skilled workforce and innovative solutions required to sustain long-term economic transformation.

Dr. Ogunnaike welcomed the establishment of the Ningbo–Yiwu Industrial Collaboration Research and Service Center, describing it as a significant milestone that will strengthen enterprise matchmaking, joint research, investment promotion, policy implementation, talent development and industrial cooperation between Africa and China.

He further commended the strategic agreements reached during the forum, including cooperation on port development, logistics infrastructure and technology partnerships, noting that they demonstrate how practical collaboration can translate dialogue into measurable economic outcomes.

“Trade should create factories, not just markets; skilled jobs, not just transactions; and innovation, not just imports. Through stronger partnerships, Africa and China can build resilient industries, empower young entrepreneurs and unlock sustainable prosperity for future generations,” he added.

Dr. Ogunnaike expressed confidence that the outcomes of the Ningbo Forum would deepen Africa–China trade, attract greater investment, strengthen regional supply chains and create new opportunities for businesses across both continents. He called on governments, development partners, financial institutions and the private sector to sustain collaboration and accelerate the implementation of initiatives that promote industrial growth, innovation and inclusive economic development.

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