The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has announced plans to establish electric vehicle factories in Nigeria as part of a broader strategy to enhance Sino-Nigerian cooperation in the solid minerals sector.
During a recent visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, Ambassador Dunhai highlighted the importance of closer ties between the two nations to foster Nigeria’s industrial growth. A statement from the minister’s media office confirmed China’s intention to invest in EV manufacturing within Nigeria.
Ambassador Dunhai described Nigeria as a country rich in natural resources and noted China’s prioritization of Nigeria in its foreign policy framework. He referenced the recent meeting between Presidents Bola Tinubu and Xi Jinping, where both leaders agreed to upgrade their bilateral relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
Minister Alake reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to attracting serious investors focused on local value addition. “For years, our minerals have been exported raw to fuel foreign industrialisation. That must change,” he said. “With abundant lithium, we want local manufacturing of electric vehicles and batteries.”
The ambassador expressed support for Nigeria’s policy, noting that Chinese firms are already engaged in mining exploration and processing. “Plans are underway to establish electric vehicle factories and other manufacturing ventures in Nigeria,” he said.
He also stressed that Chinese companies are expected to comply with Nigerian laws, environmental standards, and corporate social responsibility, with zero tolerance for illegal mining.
Dr. Alake acknowledged the generally good conduct of Chinese firms but raised concerns about a few illegal operators, calling for cooperation to bring them to justice. He also praised the impact of Mining Marshals in reducing illegal mining activities.
