China To Establish Electric Vehicle Factory In Nigeria.
The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, HE Yu Dunhai, has underscored the need for deeper collaboration between China and Nigeria to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, particularly through the establishment of electric vehicle (EV) factories in the country.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, in Abuja on Sunday, Ambassador Dunhai described Nigeria as a “great country” endowed with vast natural resources. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to placing Nigeria at the heart of its foreign policy.
The Ambassador highlighted the recent state visit of President Bola Tinubu to China, where both President Tinubu and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to elevate bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This, he noted, opens new avenues for cooperation, particularly in Nigeria’s mining sector.
“Chinese companies are already deeply engaged in Nigeria’s mining industry, from exploration to processing,” Dunhai said. “We aim to strengthen this partnership, aligning with President Tinubu’s eight priority areas, especially economic diversification through solid minerals.”
Dunhai stressed that the Chinese Embassy and government consistently urge Chinese firms operating in Nigeria to comply with local laws, implement robust Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and adhere to environmental and safety standards. He reiterated China’s “zero tolerance” stance on illegal mining, expressing readiness to collaborate with Nigerian authorities to bring offenders to justice.
In response, Dr. Alake expressed appreciation for the longstanding Nigeria-China relationship, noting that most Chinese firms operate within the country’s legal and regulatory frameworks. However, he raised concerns about a small number of operators whose actions risk tarnishing China’s reputation, citing a recent viral video allegedly showing a Chinese national attempting to bribe local security agents.
“We have taken decisive action against illegal operators, including some Chinese nationals,” Alake said. “While these incidents are isolated, they undermine the efforts of compliant Chinese firms. We seek your cooperation to ensure such culprits face justice.”
The Minister’s remarks underline Nigeria’s commitment to fostering a transparent and mutually beneficial partnership with China, while addressing challenges that threaten the integrity of the solid minerals sector.
The proposal to establish EV factories signals a significant step towards industrialisation and job creation in Nigeria, aligning with efforts to diversify the economy through its abundant mineral resources. Both nations appear poised to deepen their strategic partnership, leveraging their shared commitment to sustainable development and economic growth.
