By Olukayode Olumuyiwa.
On December 24, 2025, the Binhe North Road in Changsha’s Malanshan district became the epicenter of a new era in Afro-Chinese relations. Against the backdrop of the “Christmas Reunion: New Opportunities for Trade” theme, the China-International Business Exchange Conference & Christmas Carnival for Global Entrepreneurs brought together diplomats, business titans, and innovators to forge a future of shared prosperity.
While the event featured high-level delegates from across the African continent, it was the resonant voice and strategic vision of Nigerian entrepreneur Mr. Austin Akpehe that captured the essence of the gathering.
A Visionary Bridge: Austin Akpehe’s Journey
Mr. Austin Akpehe, CEO of Hunan Galaxy Global Trade Development and Hunan Africa Edifice Invention Nigeria, delivered a speech that was as much about personal transformation as it was about economic evolution. A former professional footballer who played across Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, France, and Germany, Akpehe’s journey from the pitch to the boardroom embodies the “global exposure and teamwork” he now champions for Nigerian business.
“My journey has been one defined by global exposure, teamwork, and cross-cultural collaboration,” Akpehe remarked, citing the mentorship of figures like former Liberian President George Weah as the foundation of his commitment to international cooperation.
Strengthening the Nigeria-China Axis
Akpehe’s address focused heavily on how Nigeria—Africa’s largest consumer market—can leverage China’s technological and industrial prowess. He outlined a roadmap for the Hunan Business Economic and Trade Promotion Committee to serve as a “trusted channel” for:
- Infrastructure & Tech Transfer: Establishing a UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) training base and an AI development center in Nigeria to modernize the workforce.
- Agricultural Modernization: Implementing advanced irrigation and food processing technologies to ensure Nigerian food security.
- Industrial Growth: Assisting Nigerian companies with registration in China and facilitating the establishment of Free Trade Zones (FTZs) and warehouses.
- Empowerment through Sports: Using his background to foster youth empowerment through sports training and cultural exchange.
“Together, we will elevate cooperation between Nigeria, China, and Ghana—not just in trade, but in friendship, culture, and innovation,” Akpehe declared.
A Pan-African Momentum
The conference was a testament to the growing influence of the Hunan Province as China’s gateway to Africa. Alongside the Nigerian delegation, key African representatives shared their perspectives:
- Mr. Harris Potani, Consul General of Malawi in Changsha, shared diplomatic insights on deepening the strategic partnership between Malawi and China
- Mr. Stephen Koberou, Chief Representative of the Tanzania Chamber of Commerce in Hunan, emphasized the role of chambers of commerce in localizing Chinese investments.
- Mr. Raphothing Lopdin, representing the Hunan Chamber of Commerce for Lesotho and South Africa, highlighted the resource-efficient matching of projects.
A major highlight of the event was the announcement of key economic and trade projects, including 34 projects from South Africa and 23 projects from Ghana, signaling a tangible commitment to infrastructure and green energy across the continent.
The Path Forward
The event, organized by Hunan Xiang Africa Business Service Co., Ltd. under the leadership of Executive Director Yu Yang, marks a shift toward “precisely connecting” advanced manufacturing with African markets. For Nigeria, the participation of leaders like Austin Akpehe ensures that the country remains at the forefront of this digital and industrial revolution.
As the “Christmas Carnival” transitioned into an evening of networking and celebration at the Xihua 1999 Beer Bar, the message was clear: the relationship between China and Nigeria is no longer just about aid or simple trade—it is about a sophisticated, collaborative partnership built on mutual respect and long-term growth.
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