China to establish electric vehicle factories in Nigeria
China is set to deepen its partnership with Nigeria through the establishment of electric vehicle (EV) factories, as part of broader efforts to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector. This initiative was highlighted by the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake.
Ambassador Dunhai emphasized Nigeria’s rich natural resources and its strategic importance in China’s foreign policy. He referenced the recent meeting between Presidents Bola Tinubu and Xi Jinping, where both leaders agreed to elevate their countries’ relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership—opening new avenues for collaboration.
“Chinese companies are already actively engaged in Nigeria’s mining sector, from exploration to processing,” Dunhai stated. “We aim to expand this cooperation, particularly in alignment with President Tinubu’s economic agenda, which includes diversifying through solid minerals.”
According to a statement by Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, Dunhai stressed that the Chinese government continues to urge Chinese firms in Nigeria to comply with local laws, uphold environmental and safety standards, and implement corporate social responsibility initiatives. He reaffirmed China’s zero tolerance for illegal mining and its willingness to assist Nigeria in prosecuting offenders.
In response, Minister Alake acknowledged Nigeria’s strong ties with China and commended the majority of Chinese firms operating legally. However, he voiced concern over isolated incidents involving illegal activities by some operators, citing a recent viral video of a Chinese national allegedly bribing security personnel.
“We’ve taken decisive action against illegal operators, including some Chinese nationals,” Alake said. “These isolated cases cast a shadow on the good work of compliant companies. We need your support in ensuring such individuals are held accountable.”
Alake also noted the positive impact of the recently established Mining Marshals, who have enhanced enforcement and regulatory compliance across the sector. He emphasized that Nigeria is open to serious investors committed to adding value locally rather than exporting raw materials.
“For too long, our minerals have fueled industrial growth abroad,” the minister said. “That era must end. With abundant resources like lithium, we now focus on local processing and manufacturing—especially in sectors like electric vehicle and battery production.”
He urged Ambassador Dunhai to encourage Chinese investors to engage in full-cycle operations—from mineral extraction to manufacturing—within Nigeria. Highlighting Nigeria’s large consumer market, Alake said the country presents a prime opportunity for investments that support a transition away from fossil fuels.
Ambassador Dunhai expressed support for Nigeria’s value-addition policy, noting that African industrialization is a priority under President Xi Jinping’s agenda. He confirmed that plans are underway to establish EV factories and other manufacturing ventures in Nigeria as part of this shared vision.
