The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Yu Dunhai, has emphasised the importance of enhanced collaboration between China and Nigeria to harness the potential of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector through the establishment of electric vehicle (EV) factories in the country.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, at the weekend, Ambassador Dunhai described Nigeria as a great country endowed with vast natural resources. He reiterated China’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, noting that Nigeria holds a pivotal place in China’s foreign policy.
A statement issued by Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, recalled the recent high-level engagement between Presidents Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Xi Jinping during President Tinubu’s state visit to China. Ambassador Dunhai noted that the meeting resulted in an agreement to elevate relations between both countries to a comprehensive strategic partnership, opening new avenues for cooperation.
“Chinese companies are already deeply involved in Nigeria’s mining sector, from exploration to processing. We aim to deepen this collaboration, especially in line with President Tinubu’s eight priority areas, particularly economic diversification through solid minerals,” the Ambassador said.
He added that the Chinese embassy and government continuously urge Chinese companies operating in Nigeria to comply with local laws, implement Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and adhere to environmental and safety standards. Emphasising China’s zero tolerance for illegal mining, Ambassador Dunhai reaffirmed Beijing’s readiness to work with Nigerian authorities to prosecute offenders.
In his response, Dr Alake acknowledged the long-standing relationship between both countries and recognised that most Chinese firms operate within Nigeria’s legal and regulatory framework. However, he expressed concern over the activities of a few operators tarnishing China’s image, referencing a recent viral video showing a Chinese national allegedly bribing local security agents.
