Nigeria, South Korea set sights on solar and electric vehicle manufacturing partnership

Nigeria is on track to deepen its industrial and clean energy ambitions, as Vice President Kashim Shettima has welcomed a major partnership proposal from South Korea’s Asia Economic Development Committee (AEDC). This aims to boost local manufacturing of solar equipment and electric vehicles (EVs), marking a significant step in the country’s push for sustainable development and technology transfer.

The AEDC delegation, led by Chairman Yoon Suk-hun, met with Shettima at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday. During the meeting, Shettima reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment and facilitating investments that will transfer advanced technology and improve the lives of Nigerians.

“This government wants to be the facilitator for businesses to thrive in Nigeria. We will create a safe passage and a conducive environment for private businesses like yours to thrive,” Shettima said, emphasizing Nigeria’s openness to collaborations that drive industrial growth.

The proposed partnership goes beyond clean energy and electric vehicles. It also includes plans to support Nigeria’s security infrastructure with advanced information technology, reflecting a broader vision for a secure and innovation-driven economy.

AEDC has pledged to prioritize technology transfer and capacity building, focusing on long-term benefits for both nations rather than short-term profits.

If realized, the partnership could help reduce import dependence, create jobs, and position Nigeria as a regional leader in renewable energy and sustainable transportation.

Shettima praised South Korea’s longstanding contributions to Africa’s development, especially in technology and human capital, and expressed optimism that this new collaboration would further strengthen ties between the two countries.