This report focuses on Chinese involvement and investment in Nigeria’s railway sector and the intersection of planned projects and regional security dynamics. Examining the role of Chinese loan finance and state-owned enterprises in Nigeria’s transition from its inherited colonial infrastructure, it considers the economic implications of these projects for security and peacebuilding and their potential as a flash point for local grievances and conflict risks.

Summary

  • Chinese firms and finance play a prominent role in Nigeria’s infrastructure development, notably in the construction of several railway lines across the country.
  • The intersection of planned railway projects and regional security dynamics has implications for security and peacebuilding and as a potential flash point for local grievances.
  • The inherently political nature of railway projects can by definition exacerbate existing regional inequalities and interethnic grievances.
  • New railways can contribute to investment and growth in impoverished regions, but security issues—particularly in the Niger Delta and southeastern Nigeria—are significant risks to the implementation of these projects and their feasibility going forward.

About the Report

This Special Report examines the role of Chinese investment and involvement in planned railway projects in Nigeria and its implications for regional security dynamics and peacebuilding. It was commissioned by and undertaken with the support of the United States Institute of Peace.

About the Author

Yunnan Chen is a PhD candidate at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) and a research assistant at the SAIS China Africa Research Initiative. Her research focuses on Chinese development finance in Africa’s transport and infrastructure sectors.


Related Publications

How the India-China Border Deal Impacts Their Ties and the U.S.

How the India-China Border Deal Impacts Their Ties and the U.S.

Thursday, October 31, 2024

Since a 2020 clash between Indian and Chinese troops along their countries’ long disputed border, known as the Line of Actual Control (LAC), friction has mounted between the two Asian powers. But the two sides reached a deal in late October to de-escalate tensions. Although the details remain murky, India and China have already pulled back troops from two key flashpoint areas on the Himalayan frontier. Still, it remains to be seen what this means for the broader, frosty India-China relationship. The U.S. and India have significantly strengthened security ties in recent years, in part responding to China’s rise and aggressive behavior in the region. So, Washington will be watching closely to see what comes next.

Type: Question and Answer

Global Policy

Kiribati’s President Wins Reelection: What Does it Mean for the U.S. and China?

Kiribati’s President Wins Reelection: What Does it Mean for the U.S. and China?

Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Kiribati President Taneti Maamau, reelected last week, will probably use his third term to continue strengthening ties with China. U.S. relations with Kiribati, however, remain less well established. Since last year, the number of U.S. embassies in the Pacific Islands has leapt from six to nine, reflecting the region’s higher priority to the United States as its concerns have grown about China’s engagement. But efforts to build a U.S. embassy in Kiribati — the closest country to Hawai‘i — have stalled because of Maamau’s government.

Type: Analysis

Global Policy

North Korean Troops in Russia Show Putin Is Doubling Down on Ukraine War

North Korean Troops in Russia Show Putin Is Doubling Down on Ukraine War

Tuesday, October 29, 2024

After signing a mutual defense pledge in June, North Korea and Russia relations appear to be deepening. U.S. officials confirmed last week that North Korean troops, including elite special forces, were in Russia for training and potentially combat operations against Ukraine. This represents a “dangerous expansion of the war,” according to U.S. and NATO officials. It could also have serious ramifications for peace and security on the Korean Peninsula. South Korea is concerned that the deployment of North Korean troops could provide them valuable combat and technical experience. Meanwhile, China is watching closely to see what this means for its influence over North Korea and the implications for broader geopolitical tensions with the West.

Type: Question and Answer

Global Policy

At SCO, Pakistan Promotes Relevance as China Projects Influence

At SCO, Pakistan Promotes Relevance as China Projects Influence

Thursday, October 24, 2024

Last week, Pakistan hosted leaders from China, Russia, India, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Iran and Belarus for the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit. While the lead-up to the summit highlighted the constraints that Pakistan’s internal troubles place on its ability to play an active role in global diplomacy, Islamabad was able to sidestep any serious diplomatic faux pas. India’s attendance may have left a door cracked to dialogue between Pakistan and its neighboring rival.

Type: Question and Answer

Global Policy

View All Publications