The History of Chinese Presence in Nigeria (1950s-2010s): Factories, Commodities, and Entrepreneurs

This book explores how Chinese migrants and the Nigerian state, workers, traders, and consumers interacted from the mid-twentieth century to the early twenty-first century, revealing that the Chinese presence in Nigeria is not as recent as it might appear. It emphasizes African agency in shaping this presence and is a must-read for academics, researchers, and students of African History, African Studies, Chinese Studies, and those interested in contemporary Africa-China relations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 29 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book, a pioneering work in the field of Chinese history in Nigeria, delves into the intricate dynamics between Chinese migrants, the Nigerian state, workers, traders, and consumers from the mid-twentieth century to the early twenty-first century. Through a comprehensive examination of archival sources and oral history interviews, the book challenges the notion that the significant Chinese presence in Nigeria, characterized by Chinese-owned factories, commodities, and entrepreneurs, is a recent phenomenon. In fact, as early as the 1950s, a group of Chinese entrepreneurs ventured to Nigeria, establishing factories and gradually gaining dominance in key manufacturing industries such as textiles and enamelware. This dominance remained unchallenged until the late 1990s, when mainland Chinese traders arrived with their made-in-China goods, profoundly altering the structure and influential pattern of the Chinese in Nigeria.

Moreover, the research underscores the significant role played by African (Nigerian) agency in shaping this Chinese presence, both economically and culturally. This book is a must-read for academics, researchers, and students of African History, African Studies, Chinese Studies, and those interested in contemporary issues related to Africa-China relations. Its insights shed light on the complex and multifaceted interactions between different cultures and societies, offering valuable perspectives on the evolving dynamics of global migration and economic development.

Weight: 500g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032279664