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China wants to pump Nigeria full of electric vehicles (EVs).

On May 18, Segun Tomori, special assistant on media to Nigeria’s minister of solid minerals development, announced that it has granted China approval to establish EV factories in the country. It’s part of a move to deepen bilateral trade between both countries.

The announcement comes a month after BYD, China’s top EV maker, entered the Nigerian market. Before experienced foreign entrants, EV production in Nigeria has remained local. Private companies like Siltech, Egoras, and Trekk have actively manufactured EVs for Nigerian roads. But high upfront costs, limited public awareness, and poor infrastructure—such as a lack of accessible charging stations—have likely kept adoption low. That’s why some of these automakers are pursuing partnerships, teaming up with major employers of drivers, such as ride-hailing companies.

China’s expertise could help ramp up EV infrastructure across the country, effectively powering adoption. The Nigerian government has been trying for years to invite EV players into the country, offering tax rebates and import duty waivers; finally, it could get what it has always wanted.

Yet, the government may be playing two sides. Nigeria wants to reduce petrol cars on its roads, but beyond EVs, it has also actively backed compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered vehicles.

Government-led initiatives like the PCNGi created a signalling that has brought in several auto-makers and companies leaning towards CNG. Case in point: Russia’s AvtoVAZ entered Nigeria and said it will bring in more CNG-powered vehicles, and Bolt introduced e-tricycles in April.

So, what car engine will reign supreme on Nigerian roads in the coming years? Our money is on CNG in the short term, but with better policies and infrastructure, EVs could thrive long term.

EVs need steady power that Nigeria cannot provide yet. Charging them on alternative sources of electricity, like solar, is high maintenance and a lot of Nigerians might not be too happy about spending extra, making CNGs the more accessible option. 

China’s interest in Nigeria could be more about its lithium than its roads. If Nigerians can’t buy the cars, the Chinese will export them anyway—and be happy to pay taxes. A win-win for them.