FG Gives China the Go-Ahead to Establish Electric Vehicle Plants in Nigeria

The Federal Government has granted approval for the establishment of Chinese electric vehicle (EV) factories in Nigeria, marking a major step in the country’s push toward industrialisation and clean energy. This development was revealed during a courtesy visit by the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake.

Ambassador Dunhai emphasised the importance of deeper collaboration between both countries, particularly in leveraging Nigeria’s vast solid mineral resources. He referenced recent high-level talks between President Bola Tinubu and Chinese President Xi Jinping, during which both leaders agreed to elevate bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership. According to him, this new level of cooperation would create fresh opportunities, particularly in areas such as electric vehicle production.

In a statement issued by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, the ambassador noted that Nigeria’s wealth of natural resources makes it an attractive destination for Chinese investment. He stressed that China has always viewed Nigeria as a key partner in Africa, and is committed to supporting its industrial growth through value-added manufacturing.

Minister Alake reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to attracting serious investors, especially in the solid minerals sector. He highlighted the government’s new policy focus on in-country processing and full-cycle investments—from raw material extraction to final product manufacturing. “For years, our minerals have been exported raw to fuel foreign industrialisation. That must change,” he said, adding that the country’s abundant lithium reserves provide a strong foundation for domestic EV and battery production.

Dunhai welcomed the shift toward local value addition, aligning it with President Xi’s broader goal of promoting African industrialisation. He confirmed that plans are in motion to establish EV factories and related manufacturing ventures in Nigeria. He also pointed out that Chinese firms are already active in Nigeria’s mining sector and are now looking to expand their involvement to support President Tinubu’s economic diversification agenda.

The ambassador assured that Chinese companies are expected to adhere to Nigerian laws, environmental standards, and corporate social responsibility commitments. He reaffirmed China’s zero tolerance for illegal mining and its willingness to cooperate with Nigerian authorities to prosecute violators.

In response, Alake acknowledged the positive contributions of many Chinese firms but raised concerns about the actions of a few non-compliant operators. He cited a recent viral video showing a Chinese national allegedly bribing local security agents, noting that swift action had been taken in that case. The minister called for stronger cooperation to ensure accountability and preserve the integrity of bilateral relations.

He also highlighted the success of Nigeria’s newly launched Mining Marshals, who have begun enforcing regulations and clamping down on illegal mining activities, thereby improving compliance among both local and foreign companies.