A recent study by the China Index has ranked Nigeria fourth among 101 countries where China has significant influence.
The Index is published by China in the World (CITW) network, an initiative of the Taiwan-based civil society organisation, Doublethink Lab, and draws on research by hundreds of researchers and local experts worldwide.
The research highlights China’s expanding presence in Nigeria’s key sectors, including technology, law enforcement, economy and foreign policy.
On economic influence, the research shows Nigeria as top trading partner.
China is Nigeria’s top trading partner and holds most of its bilateral sovereign debt, giving it substantial economic leverage.
On policy decisions, the new report disclosed massive economic influence that may shape Nigeria’s policy decisions and position in multilateral forums.
Also, there is the technological influence linking surveillance systems.
Chinese firms, like Huawei, have implemented ‘Safe City’ surveillance systems in major Nigerian cities, raising concerns about data privacy and public oversight.
The cybersecurity norms showed Nigeria’s adoption of Chinese cybersecurity devices that may compromise data privacy and transparency.
There are also findings in the area of law enforcement with training programmes.
The report shows that China has provided training to Nigerian police officials, potentially shaping the country’s law enforcement norms and practices. This, no doubt, has great influence on governance.
The influence raises concerns about the long-term implications for civil liberties and institutional accountability in the country.
On implications and concerns, the study’s findings have sparked debates about the benefits and drawbacks of Nigeria’s growing ties with China.
Key concerns include data privacy referring to the use of Chinese surveillance systems and cybersecurity norms, which may compromise data privacy and transparency.
The report also highlights adoption of Chinese-style governance models, which may likely have long-term implications for civil liberties and institutional accountability in Nigeria.