Nigeria and South Korea forge green tech alliance to boost jobs, clean energy

Nigeria is set to benefit from a partnership with South Korea aimed at accelerating the country’s transition to clean energy and electric mobility. The collaboration promises to create jobs, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance local manufacturing capabilities in solar equipment and electric vehicles (EVs).

During a meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Vice President Kashim Shettima welcomed a delegation from South Korea’s Asia Economic Development Committee (AEDC), led by Chairman Yoon Suk-hun. The AEDC proposed a partnership to support the production of solar equipment and the manufacture of electric vehicles (EVs) in Nigeria.

“Nigeria is open to and interested in any form of arrangement that would lead to the transfer of technology,” Shettima stated, emphasising the country’s commitment to establishing industries for solar equipment production and EV manufacturing.

This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. In March 2025, the federal government approved N151.9 billion for the procurement of electric buses and tricycles, as well as the installation of charging infrastructure in the North-East region. The project, funded by the North East Development Commission (NEDC), aims to promote energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

South Korea’s commitment to Africa’s development is evident in its pledge of $24 billion in development and trade assistance for African nations, including Nigeria. This includes $10 billion earmarked for development projects and $14 billion to boost the activities of Korean companies operating in Africa. The pledge was made during the 2024 Korea-Africa Summit held in Seoul.

Yoon Suk-hun highlighted that the AEDC’s interest in Nigeria stems from the country’s vast potential and the forward-looking vision of its current leadership. He emphasized that the committee’s proposals prioritize long-term technology transfer and capacity building over profit, with a focus on sectors such as solar energy, electric mobility, and digital security.

The proposed partnership is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s efforts to develop a cleaner, technology-driven transport and energy sector. By fostering local manufacturing capacity for electric vehicles (EVs) and solar equipment, Nigeria can reduce its dependence on imports and drive long-term technology transfer to its industrial base.

Read more on Nigeria’s love for Lamborghinis: The luxury, the scrutiny, and the hidden costs