The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has announced plans to establish electric vehicle factories in Nigeria to enhance collaboration in the solid minerals sector. Both he and Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, discussed the importance of local value addition in Nigeria’s mining industry. They emphasised the need for compliance to improve the reputation of Chinese firms operating in Nigeria.
The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between China and Nigeria, especially in developing Nigeria’s solid minerals sector. He made these remarks during a visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, highlighting plans for establishing electric vehicle factories in Nigeria.
Dunhai stressed that Nigeria, rich in natural resources, is a key player in China’s foreign policy. He referenced the recent meeting between Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and Chinese President Xi Jinping, where they reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and creating new avenues for cooperation.
In his comments, Minister Alake welcomed foreign investment in Nigeria’s mining industry, particularly focusing on local value addition. He encouraged Ambassador Dunhai to promote full-cycle investments by Chinese companies, from mineral extraction to processing, to leverage Nigeria’s vast market and reduce dependence on fossil fuels through electric vehicle manufacturing.
Alake pointed out, “For years, our minerals have been exported raw to fuel foreign industrialisation. That must change. We now prioritise local processing to drive Nigeria’s development.” He specifically mentioned lithium, signalling strong interest in developing local electric vehicle and battery manufacturing.
Ambassador Dunhai expressed alignment with Nigeria’s local value addition strategy, highlighting that President Xi Jinping prioritises African industrialisation. He noted, “Plans are underway to establish electric vehicle factories and other manufacturing ventures in Nigeria.” He shared that Chinese firms are already active in Nigeria’s mining sector, encompassing exploration and processing phases.
Dunhai stated the Chinese government insists on compliance with local laws by its companies, emphasising Corporate Social Responsibility and environmental standards. There’s a strict no-tolerance policy towards illegal mining, and collaboration with the Nigerian government is seen as essential for addressing such issues.
Minister Alake acknowledged the positive relationship between Nigeria and China, noting most Chinese companies operate within legal parameters. Yet, he voiced concerns over the actions of a few individuals tarnishing the broader reputation of Chinese businesses, citing a recent incident involving a Chinese national allegedly bribing security personnel.
“We have taken action against illegal operators, including some Chinese nationals. While isolated incidents, they undermine the good efforts of many compliant Chinese firms,” Alake remarked. He also mentioned the formation of Mining Marshals, aimed at combatting illegal mining, which has successfully raised compliance awareness among both local and foreign operators.
The recent discussions between Nigeria and China mark a significant step towards establishing electric vehicle factories in Nigeria. Both nations recognise the potential for economic collaboration, primarily through local value addition in the mining sector. As China commits to investments that adhere to local regulations and corporate social responsibility, Nigeria remains open to foreign partnerships to foster its industrial growth, aiming for a sustainable future in electric vehicle production.
Original Source: punchng.com