CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW AND THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
1.1 Introduction
The thrust of this literature review is to examine how scholars have attempted to explain the Nigeria-China relations with emphasis on political economic and cultural ties. This is with a view to locating the gap in the literature.
2.1 Conceptual Framework
Historically, the political economic and cultural relations of People’ Republic of China and the Federal Republic of Nigeria dates back to 10th February, 1971 and the two countries’ bilateral relations have since been smooth and stably developed (Ali, 2008).
The development of this relationship has resulted in several bilateral agreements, in economic, trade, cultural, educational ties and many more. In fact, it is reported that about 20,000 Chinese live in Nigeria especially at the major economic centers of the country namely; Lagos, Kano, and Abuja (Chibundu, 2000).
In August 2001, both countries signed an agreement on investment promotion and protection; in April 2002 they signed the agreement for avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income. And three months later (July, 2002) the agreements on consular affairs, cooperation on strengthening management of Narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and diversion of precursor chemical, and tourism cooperation were signed by both countries (Igwe,2007).
Apparently these ties have strengthened their political economic and cultural relationships.
2.2.1 Evolution of Nigeria-China Relations
The People’s Republic of China was founded and proclaimed on 1st day of October, 1949, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria emerged as an independent entity from British Colonial rule on the 1st day of October, 1960. Nigeria and China therefore shared symbolic day and month of political independence. Beyond the symbolic coincidence of the historic dates, China is the most populated country in the world (with estimated population of 1.5billion), while Nigeria is a country with the largest concentration of blacks in Africa (with an estimated population of 170 million).
