China is set to establish electric vehicle (EV) factories in Nigeria as part of a broader effort to deepen economic collaboration between the two nations.
During a recent courtesy visit to Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunhai emphasized the importance of leveraging Nigeria’s solid mineral resources to drive industrial development—particularly in the EV sector.
Ambassador Dunhai described Nigeria as a resource-rich country and highlighted the growing partnership between both nations, reinforced by the recent meeting between Presidents Xi Jinping and Bola Tinubu. At that meeting, the two leaders agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, creating new opportunities for cooperation.
He noted China’s active role in Nigeria’s mining sector, with Chinese companies involved in exploration, mineral processing, and other activities. Dunhai expressed a desire to expand these efforts in line with Nigeria’s push to diversify its economy, particularly through the development of the solid minerals industry.
Underscoring the importance of legal and ethical business practices, the Ambassador reiterated China’s zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining. He assured Nigerian authorities that Chinese firms are being held to strict standards and are encouraged to follow local laws, engage in corporate social responsibility, and uphold environmental and safety regulations. He also pledged China’s support in prosecuting any offenders.
Responding to the Ambassador’s remarks, Dr. Alake welcomed the proposal for deeper collaboration but raised concerns over illegal practices by some operators. He referred to a recent viral video allegedly showing a Chinese national attempting to bribe local security officers, affirming that swift actions have already been taken to address such incidents.
Alake highlighted the Nigerian government’s creation of a specialized Mining Marshal unit, which has improved compliance and enforcement in the sector. He emphasized a national policy shift from raw mineral exports to in-country value addition. With Nigeria’s significant lithium reserves, he called for investments in local production of EVs and batteries.
Encouraging Chinese investors to adopt a full-cycle investment model—from mineral extraction to manufacturing—Dr. Alake emphasized Nigeria’s large consumer base and growing commitment to clean energy as major incentives for EV production.
In response, Ambassador Dunhai voiced strong support for Nigeria’s value-addition strategy and reiterated China’s backing for African industrialisation. He revealed that plans are already underway to establish EV factories and other manufacturing ventures in Nigeria, reflecting a shared vision for sustainable economic growth.
