The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between China and Nigeria to unlock Nigeria’s solid minerals potential by establishing electric vehicle factories in the country.
During a courtesy visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, Ambassador Yu Dunhai highlighted Nigeria’s significant natural resources and China’s consistent prioritization of Nigeria in its foreign policy.
He recalled the recent productive meeting between Presidents Bola Tinubu and Xi Jinping, where they agreed to elevate their countries’ relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, opening doors for greater cooperation.
Ambassador Dunhai noted the extensive involvement of Chinese companies in Nigeria’s mining sector, spanning exploration to processing, and expressed China’s aim to deepen this collaboration, particularly in line with President Tinubu’s focus on economic diversification through solid minerals.
The Ambassador assured that the Chinese government consistently urges its companies in Nigeria to adhere to local laws, implement Corporate Social Responsibility, and maintain high environmental and safety standards.
He stressed China’s zero tolerance for illegal mining and its readiness to cooperate with Nigeria to prosecute those involved.
In response, Dr. Alake acknowledged the long-standing positive relationship with China and the compliance of most Chinese firms.
However, he raised concerns about a few operators damaging China’s reputation, citing a recent bribery incident involving a Chinese national.
Dr. Alake affirmed Nigeria’s commitment to tackling illegal mining through initiatives like the Mining Marshals, which have improved regulatory compliance. He reiterated that Nigeria welcomes serious investors, with a current focus on local value addition in the mining industry.
He urged Ambassador Dunhai to encourage Chinese investors to engage in complete investment cycles in Nigeria, from extraction to processing, particularly highlighting the potential for local manufacturing of electric vehicles and batteries given Nigeria’s lithium abundance.
Ambassador Dunhai expressed support for Nigeria’s local value-addition policy, aligning with President Xi Jinping’s emphasis on African industrialization.
He revealed ongoing plans to establish electric vehicle factories and other manufacturing ventures in Nigeria.
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