Nigeria–South Korea EV Partnership Signals Breakthrough for Africa’s Automotive Industry

Nigeria has taken a decisive step toward transforming its automotive sector by signing a strategic agreement with South Korea’s Asia Economic Development Committee (AEDC) to build an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant and nationwide charging infrastructure. This landmark collaboration places Nigeria at the forefront of the continent’s electric mobility revolution and carries significant implications for Africa’s automotive market. 

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlines a phased approach that begins with EV assembly and will ultimately progress to full local production. Once fully operational, the facility is expected to achieve an annual capacity of approximately 300,000 electric vehicles and create around 10,000 jobs, a major boost for Nigeria’s manufacturing capacity and economic growth.

This South Korea–Nigeria partnership aligns with Nigeria’s broader policy initiatives aimed at diversifying mobility solutions and actively lowering carbon emissions. The deal also complements recent legislative efforts such as the 'Electric Vehicle Transition and Green Mobility Bill', which promotes local EV production, job creation, and infrastructure development across the country.

Why This Matters for Africa

Nigeria’s position as a major automotive market makes this EV initiative significant for the entire region. It supports sustainable transport, encourages industrial growth, and opens new opportunities for investment and cleaner technologies across West Africa and sub-Saharan Africa as a whole.

However, realising the full potential of electric vehicles in Nigeria and wider Africa requires more than assembly plants. Experts continue to emphasise the need for expanded charging infrastructure, enabling policies, and partnerships that support local research, technology transfer, and skills development.

The Nigeria–South Korea EV deal is a major milestone for Africa’s automotive future. By fostering local production, creating jobs, and enhancing infrastructure, it accelerates Nigeria’s path to EV adoption and sustainable mobility. Events like the West Africa Automotive Show play a vital role in this transformation by connecting the industry’s key players, promoting innovation, and spotlighting business growth opportunities in Africa’s rapidly evolving automotive market.

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Source: Business Day NG, February 2026