The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, yesterday, harped on enhanced collaboration between China and Nigeria in unlocking the latter’s solid minerals sector’s potential through the establishment of electric vehicle factories in the country.

During a courtesy visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, in his office at the weekend, the envoy acknowledged that Nigeria is a great country blessed with tremendous natural resources, noting that China has always placed the country in a very pivotal position of its foreign policy.

Recalling the recent high-level engagement between Presidents Bola Tinubu and Xi Jinping during Tinubu’s state visit to China, Ambassador Dunhai, recalled that both leaders agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, creating new opportunities for cooperation.

Dunhai said: “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, notably economic diversification through solid minerals.”

The ambassador noted that the embassy and the Chinese government have always admonished Chinese companies operating in Nigeria to abide by rules and regulations, implement Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and adhering to environmental and safety standards, adding that the Chinese authorities have zero tolerance for illegal mining, and signified their readiness to work with the Nigerian government to bring suspected culprits to justice.

In his response, Alake said the country appreciates its long-standing relations with China, acknowledging that most Chinese firms operate within legal and regulatory frameworks.

However, he expressed concern over the actions of a few operators tarnishing China’s image, referencing a recent viral video involving a Chinese national allegedly bribing local security agents.

Alake said: “We’ve taken action against illegal operators, including some Chinese nationals. While isolated, such incidents undermine the good work of many compliant Chinese firms. We need your cooperation in ensuring that such culprits are brought to justice.”