Nigeria saw a record $390 million in Chinese FDI in 2007

Key takeaways

  • Nigeria recorded its highest-ever Chinese FDI inflow of $390.4 million in 2007
  • The second-highest inflow of $333.1 million was recorded in 2012
  • FDI from China to Nigeria fluctuated significantly over the years, with major peaks in 2007, 2012, and 2020
  • 2022 saw a decline in Chinese FDI to Nigeria, falling to $119.6 million from $308.9 million in 2020

Chinese FDI in Nigeria has experienced significant fluctuations over the years. The highest inflow of $390.4 million was recorded in 2007, followed by $333.1 million in 2012. While there were other peaks in 2014 and 2020, the trend has generally been inconsistent, with 2022 showing a drop to $119.6 million.

Source:

Johns Hopkins University SAIS China-Africa Research Initiative

Period:

2003-2023
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South Africa led Africa with $6.25bn of Chinese FDI stock in 2024, over 14% of the continent's total
  • South Africa held the largest Chinese FDI stock in Africa at $6.25 billion in 2024.
  • South Africa, DR Congo and Nigeria held 30% of Africa’s Chinese FDI stock.
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China's cumulative investment in Africa has stalled since peaking at $46.1bn in 2018
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  • Niger recorded the largest increase, from $758 million in 2018 to $2.45 billion in 2024.
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Holding companies accounted for nearly 68% of Nigeria’s US direct investment balance in 2025
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  • Africa’s share of the global US direct investment balance remained below 3% throughout 1985–2025.
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