On May 19, 2025, reports that China is planning to establish electric vehicle (EV) factories in Nigeria. This is part of the country's efforts to strengthen economic ties with Nigeria and support the latter's push for industrialization. The plan was revealed during a meeting between the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, and Nigeria's Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake.
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The Chinese Ambassador emphasized China's support for Africa's industrialization and its commitment to adhering to Nigeria's legal and regulatory framework in the solid minerals sector. In response to concerns about illegal mining activities by some Chinese companies, the Ambassador assured that the Chinese government maintains a zero-tolerance policy for such practices.
The statement from the Ambassador suggests that Chinese companies are encouraged to implement robust Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives and adhere to environmental and safety standards. The proposed EV factories would be a significant step in unlocking Nigeria's mineral potential and fostering local value addition, aligning with President Bola Tinubu's agenda for economic diversification through mineral development.
Minister Alake highlighted the importance of electric mobility for sustainable development in Nigeria and the country's willingness to work with genuine investors to achieve industrial growth. The discussion between the two officials underscores the growing interest in the electric vehicle market and the potential for collaboration in the sector.
This potential investment follows several other developments in Nigeria's EV space, including the expansion of C&I Leasing's electric vehicle operations in Ghana and the federal government's approval of a N151.9 billion funding package for electric buses, tricycles, and charging infrastructure in the North-East region. These efforts aim to promote cleaner energy solutions and reduce emissions while also catering to the increasing demand for EVs among Nigerians.