The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has reaffirmed China’s strong commitment to deepening bilateral ties with Nigeria, especially in the solid minerals sector. This includes plans to establish electric vehicle (EV) factories and strengthen industrial collaboration.
During a courtesy visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, over the weekend, Ambassador Dunhai highlighted Nigeria’s strategic role in China’s foreign policy.
“Nigeria is a great nation with abundant natural resources. Chinese firms are already active in the mining sector, from exploration to processing,” Dunhai stated. “We’re committed to supporting President Tinubu’s agenda, particularly on economic diversification through solid minerals.”
He also referenced President Tinubu’s recent state visit to China, where both leaders agreed to elevate their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, opening new channels for cooperation.
Dunhai emphasized China’s policy of responsible investment, noting that Chinese firms are urged to follow Nigerian laws, respect environmental standards, and meet corporate social responsibilities.
“We have zero tolerance for illegal mining. We’re ready to work with Nigerian authorities to punish offenders,” he added.
In response, Minister Alake appreciated China’s continued support but raised concerns about illegal mining activities involving some Chinese nationals. He cited a recent viral video showing alleged bribery by a Chinese individual as damaging to China’s positive image.
“While most Chinese firms comply with the law, a few bad actors are spoiling the reputation. We’re taking firm action and need your cooperation to hold such individuals accountable,” Alake said.
Alake also spotlighted Nigeria’s new Mining Marshals initiative, which he said is already yielding results in tackling illegal mining and boosting compliance.
He stressed that Nigeria now prioritizes local value addition over raw material exportation. “We’ve exported raw minerals for too long. The focus now is on local processing to support industrial growth,” the minister said.
With Nigeria’s rich lithium deposits, Alake called for full-cycle investments, from extraction to EV and battery production, within the country.
In closing, Ambassador Dunhai expressed support for Nigeria’s value-addition goals and revealed that plans are already in motion to establish EV factories and related industries, aligning with President Xi Jinping’s vision to promote industrial growth in Africa.
