China is taking significant steps to establish electric vehicle (EV) factories in Nigeria, as highlighted by the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai. During a recent meeting with Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, the Ambassador pointed to the importance of enhancing cooperation to leverage Nigeria’s wealth of natural resources. He described the country as rich in potential and reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthen bilateral ties.

Ambassador Dunhai underscored that recent discussions between Presidents Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Xi Jinping have set the stage for a more integrated partnership, which he termed a comprehensive strategic partnership. This agreement opens up various channels for collaboration, particularly in areas such as mining, where Chinese companies are already significantly involved. “We aim to deepen this collaboration, especially in line with President Tinubu’s eight priority areas,” he added, stressing the focus on economic diversification through solid minerals.

Moreover, he noted that the Chinese government is committed to promoting responsible practices among their companies in Nigeria. They are particularly focused on ensuring local compliance, implementing Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, and maintaining environmental standards. The Ambassador made it clear that illegal mining is not tolerated, and China is ready to assist Nigerian authorities in addressing this issue.

Dr Alake, while appreciating the long-standing relationship, raised concerns about a small number of Chinese operators who could undermine the reputation of compliant businesses. He referenced a recent scandal involving a Chinese national allegedly bribing security personnel. “We have taken action against illegal operators, including some Chinese nationals,” he noted, stressing the need for cooperation to bring these offenders to justice.

The Minister believes that recent measures, such as launching Mining Marshals to tackle illegal mining, have positively impacted the sector by improving compliance and educating stakeholders. He emphasized Nigeria’s openness to serious investors, with a shift from exporting raw materials towards promoting local processing and manufacturing, especially of electric vehicles and batteries, given the rich lithium reserves.

Dr Alake urged Ambassador Dunhai to influence Chinese investors to consider full-cycle investments in Nigeria, from mineral extraction to processing, to support the nation’s economic aspirations. He reiterated the urgency of this shift, stating, “Our minerals have been exported in raw form for too long—this must come to an end.”

In closing, Ambassador Dunhai welcomed Nigeria’s policies aimed at local value addition and mentioned that advancing African industrialisation is a priority for President Xi Jinping. He hinted that plans are already in the works for establishing electric vehicle manufacturing facilities within Nigeria, indicating a bright future for collaboration in the sector.

In summary, China aims to foster a stronger partnership with Nigeria, especially in developing electric vehicle manufacturing. With ongoing discussions between leaders and a commitment to responsible business practices, there’s potential for significant progress in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector. Both nations see the rise of local processing and manufacturing as key to economic development, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com

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