In a bid to bolster Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda and strengthen bilateral relations, China has announced plans to establish electric vehicle (EV) factories in Nigeria, capitalizing on the country’s rich solid mineral resources—particularly lithium.
The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Yu Dunhai, made this known during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, over the weekend in Abuja. The ambassador underscored the strategic importance of Nigeria to China’s foreign policy, describing the West African nation as a land of immense natural wealth and a key partner in Beijing’s global cooperation efforts.
He referenced the recent high-level talks between Presidents Bola Tinubu and Xi Jinping during Tinubu’s state visit to China, where both leaders agreed to upgrade bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. According to Ambassador Dunhai, this new phase of cooperation will open fresh avenues for collaboration in critical sectors, particularly solid minerals and industrialization.
“Chinese companies are already active across Nigeria’s mining value chain—from exploration to processing. Our aim is to deepen this partnership further, in alignment with President Tinubu’s priority agenda, especially economic diversification through solid minerals,” he said.
Ambassador Dunhai reiterated China’s commitment to responsible investment, stating that the Chinese government insists that its companies adhere strictly to Nigerian laws, environmental standards, and corporate social responsibility. He emphasized China’s zero tolerance for illegal mining activities and expressed willingness to work with Nigerian authorities to prosecute offenders.
Responding, Minister Dele Alake expressed appreciation for China’s longstanding support and investments in Nigeria’s mining sector. He acknowledged that many Chinese firms operate lawfully but raised concerns about a few bad actors tarnishing China’s image, referencing a recent viral incident involving a Chinese national allegedly bribing security agents.
“We’ve taken decisive action against illegal operators, including some Chinese nationals. While these are isolated cases, they cast a shadow over the legitimate activities of many Chinese firms. We count on your cooperation to ensure such individuals face justice,” Alake said.
The Minister also highlighted the creation of the Mining Marshals, a specialized task force designed to combat illegal mining. He noted that the initiative has heightened regulatory compliance and sent a clear signal to both local and foreign players about the government’s resolve to sanitize the sector.
Reiterating Nigeria’s focus on local value addition, Alake emphasized that the country is no longer content with exporting raw minerals. He called on Chinese investors to commit to full-cycle investments, from mineral extraction to refining and manufacturing within Nigeria.
“With our vast lithium reserves, Nigeria is positioned to become a hub for electric vehicle and battery production. We welcome serious investors ready to contribute to this transformation,” he stated.
Ambassador Dunhai welcomed the call, revealing that plans are already underway to establish electric vehicle manufacturing plants in Nigeria. He affirmed China’s support for Nigeria’s industrialization drive, noting that one of President Xi Jinping’s strategic objectives is to promote African industrial growth.