President Bola Tinubu has appointed Mr. Joseph Tegbe as the director-general and global liaison for the Nigeria-China strategic partnership, formalized during the President’s recent visit to China.
The appointment was confirmed in a statement by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
Tegbe, a distinguished first-class graduate in civil engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University in 1988, will report directly to the President.
He is also a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria.
“His first task will be to draft a strategic action plan that will enable Nigeria to fully capitalize on the agreements forged between both nations in Beijing,” the statement explained.
As the lead figure of the Nigeria-China partnership, Tegbe will oversee the day-to-day operations, maintain constant communication with Chinese officials, and ensure the timely completion of all set goals aligned with Nigeria’s national development agenda.
The strategic action plan will cover key areas such as project timelines, performance indicators, and a detailed outline of the anticipated socioeconomic benefits. According to the statement, this will include priority projects, expected investments, and projected impacts on national development.
During the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged 360 billion yuan (approximately $51 billion) in new funding to African nations over the next three years. This funding includes support for 30 key infrastructure projects aimed at boosting connectivity across the continent and creating one million jobs.
Prior to FOCAC, President Tinubu secured additional commitments from President Xi to support Nigeria’s efforts in economic diversification, infrastructure upgrades, technology transfers, and job creation.
Both countries agreed to work together on various sectors, including expanding Nigeria’s rail system, improving power distribution, and establishing new industrial parks. They also committed to partnerships in healthcare, with Chinese professionals expected to support Nigeria’s medical system and engage in collaborative research.
Additionally, the partnership will foster educational and vocational training programs, with a focus on STEM subjects and academic exchanges. Joint ventures, including the creation of engineering technology academies and scholarship opportunities, will provide Nigerian youths with critical skills for the modern workforce.
The agricultural sector will also benefit, with both nations agreeing to collaborate on sustainable farming practices, knowledge-sharing, and technology transfer.
Tegbe, who has 35 years of experience in business strategy, previously led KPMG’s advisory services across Africa, with responsibilities extending to the Middle East. He has also assisted several Nigerian state governments, such as Oyo, Ekiti, and Ondo, in attracting investments from global markets including South Africa, China, and India.
With his extensive experience, Tegbe is expected to ensure the full implementation of the Nigeria-China strategic partnership agreements.
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