Plans are underway to establish electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plants and related industrial ventures in Nigeria, following high-level engagements between Nigerian and Chinese officials.
During a courtesy visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, revealed ongoing efforts to deepen economic cooperation between both nations—particularly in the area of solid minerals. He emphasized the potential of Nigeria’s vast natural resources, especially lithium, in driving a transition to clean energy through electric mobility.
The ambassador highlighted the strategic discussions held between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Chinese government during the president’s recent visit to Beijing, where both sides agreed to elevate their bilateral relationship to a more productive and investment-driven partnership.
Responding to the proposal, Dr. Alake welcomed the move and reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to work with credible investors who are committed to full-cycle operations—from mineral extraction to local processing and manufacturing.
“Nigeria is no longer interested in exporting raw minerals without value addition,” Alake said. “We expect investors to process what they extract right here in Nigeria, creating jobs and supporting industrial growth.”
He pointed out that the shift toward electric vehicle production is part of Nigeria’s broader plan to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and leverage its rich lithium reserves for sustainable development.
While acknowledging the positive contributions of many Chinese firms operating in Nigeria, Alake also expressed concern over the activities of a few individuals who have breached local regulations. He assured that legal steps have been taken to address these infractions and urged the Chinese government to support justice and discipline among its nationals.
The Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s openness to investment that aligns with its development goals and promised a conducive environment for serious, law-abiding investors.
