The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has called for deeper ties between China and Nigeria to grow the solid minerals sector. He proposed establishing electric vehicle (EV) factories in Nigeria to unlock the country’s mineral wealth.
Ambassador Dunhai made this known during his visit to Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake. The Chinese government wants to partner with Nigeria on industrial development through EV production.
“Nigeria is a great country blessed with tremendous natural resources,” the ambassador said. “China places Nigeria in a pivotal position in its foreign policy.”
Electric Vehicle Factories to Boost Industrialisation
He recalled the recent meeting between President Bola Tinubu and President Xi Jinping in China. The two leaders agreed to build a comprehensive strategic partnership between both countries. This agreement opens new opportunities for cooperation, especially in economic diversification.
Ambassador Dunhai confirmed that plans are ongoing to build EV factories and other industries in Nigeria. “Chinese companies are already deeply involved in Nigeria’s mining sector, from exploration to processing,” he added.
He explained that China supports Nigeria’s new focus on adding value to raw minerals locally. “One of President Xi Jinping’s priorities is promoting African industrialisation,” he said.
The ambassador assured that Chinese companies in Nigeria are expected to follow local rules and respect safety and environmental standards. He also said they must take part in Corporate Social Responsibility programmes.
“The Chinese government has zero tolerance for illegal mining,” he said. “We are ready to work with the Nigerian government to bring suspected culprits to justice.”
Nigeria Demands Full-Cycle Investments in Mining
In his remarks, Dr. Dele Alake welcomed China’s interest in Nigeria’s solid minerals. He said the country is now more focused on attracting serious investors willing to add value within Nigeria.
“For years, our minerals have been exported raw to fuel foreign industrialisation. That must change,” he said.
According to him, Nigeria wants full-cycle investments — from extraction to processing and final manufacturing.
He said, “With the abundance of lithium, we want to see local manufacturing of electric vehicles and batteries.”
Dr. Alake also said Nigeria offers a large market and has the potential to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels through EV technology.
Nigeria Commends China, Frowns at Illegal Mining
The minister acknowledged that many Chinese firms in Nigeria follow the law. But he warned that a few illegal operators are damaging China’s reputation.
He pointed to a recent viral video showing a Chinese national allegedly bribing Nigerian security officers.
“We have taken action against illegal operators, including some Chinese nationals,” he said. “Such incidents, though isolated, undermine the good work of many law-abiding Chinese firms.”
He urged the Chinese embassy to work with Nigerian authorities to punish offenders.
Dr. Alake also praised the work of Nigeria’s Mining Marshals. He said the unit has reduced illegal mining and improved compliance among local and foreign operators.
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This exchange is not equal at all. Electric cars for mining our mineral resources. Nigerian government should not go for this, but I guess our leaders will because they will like to drive those flashy and expensive electric cars.