Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, in Abuja at the weekend, Ambassador Dunhai described Nigeria as a great country with vast natural resources, noting that China considers Nigeria a key partner in its foreign policy.
He referenced the recent meeting between Presidents Bola Tinubu and Xi Jinping during Tinubu’s state visit to China, where both leaders agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, creating new opportunities for economic 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 priority on economic diversification through solid minerals,” the ambassador said.
In a statement issued by Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, Ambassador Dunhai affirmed that the Chinese Government continues to urge its companies in Nigeria to adhere strictly to local laws, implement Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and maintain environmental and safety standards. He stressed that the Chinese authorities have zero tolerance for illegal mining and are ready to cooperate with Nigerian authorities to prosecute offenders.
Responding, Dr. Alake acknowledged the positive contributions of many Chinese firms operating legally in Nigeria but raised concerns over the conduct of a few illegal operators. He cited a recent viral video involving a Chinese national allegedly bribing security agents as damaging to China’s image.
“We’ve taken action against illegal operators, including some Chinese nationals. While isolated, such incidents undermine the good work of many compliant Chinese firms,” the minister stated.
He also highlighted the role of the recently launched Mining Marshals in combating illegal mining, noting that the initiative has improved compliance across the sector.
Dr. Alake reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to value addition in the mining sector, pointing to the country’s abundant lithium resources and the need to prioritize local manufacturing of electric vehicles and batteries.
He called on the Chinese envoy to encourage investors to engage in full-cycle mining operations—from extraction to processing—within Nigeria to support the country’s industrial growth and energy transition.
Ambassador Dunhai expressed China’s support for Nigeria’s local value addition policy, revealing that plans are underway to establish electric vehicle factories and other manufacturing ventures in the country.
