CHINA TO BUILD EVs IN NIGERIA AS MINERAL PARTNERSHIP DEEPENS

The upcoming EV production facilities are expected to create thousands of jobs and establish Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s green energy revolution.

Nigeria Africa Industrial transformation Manufacturing of electric vehicles China Green energy revolution.
Nigeria Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake with China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai,
Nigeria Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake with China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai,


In a bold step toward industrial transformation and clean energy leadership in Africa, China is set to begin manufacturing electric vehicles (EVs) in Nigeria, a move that promises jobs, technology transfer, and a new era of value-added mineral development.

This landmark initiative was unveiled during the weekend visit of China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, who held strategic talks with the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, in Abuja. The visit marked a key moment in the evolving relationship between Africa’s most populous nation and the world’s second-largest economy.

“Chinese companies are already actively engaged across Nigeria’s mining sector, from exploration to processing.” Ambassador Yu said. 

The ambassador confirmed that discussions between President Bola Tinubu and Chinese President Xi Jinping had laid the groundwork for this expansion. He noted that EV manufacturing aligns with Nigeria’s agenda of economic diversification through solid minerals.

Nigeria, rich in lithium and other critical resources for EV battery production, is looking to shift from being a raw-material exporter to a continental hub for high-tech green manufacturing. Dr. Alake hailed the development as a “game-changer,” saying it represents a leap toward self-sufficiency and industrial modernization.

“We have vast lithium deposits and other resources. It’s time we use them to power our development, not just others’. That’s why we want to see electric vehicle and battery production right here in Nigeria,” the Minister said.

However, the minister also emphasized the need for transparency and legal compliance in the mining sector. He referenced a recent viral video involving alleged misconduct by a Chinese national and called for greater accountability.

“We’ve already taken action against illegal operators, including some Chinese nationals,” Alake stated. “While such cases are isolated, they damage the good work of many law-abiding firms. We count on your cooperation to hold offenders accountable.”

Ambassador Yu echoed the sentiment, assuring that the Chinese government supports lawful operations and is willing to assist in curbing illegal mining practices.

The upcoming EV production facilities are expected to create thousands of jobs and establish Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s green energy revolution. With a vast market, growing infrastructure, and an urgent need for clean transport solutions, Nigeria could soon become a central player in the continent’s shift to sustainable mobility.

This collaboration signals not just economic investment but a vision for shared industrial advancement one where Nigeria’s natural riches power not just exports, but innovation and prosperity at home.

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