ABSTRACT
This chapter delves into the rise and fall of Lagos China Town and its role as a locus of interactions between Chinese migrants and the Nigerian state. It argues that the rise and fall of Chinese private investment in Lagos China Town is explained by the Nigerian state’s adjustment to its own entry into the global market. While some Nigerian government officials formed a shared interest of community with Chinese traders via allowing smuggling and grey customs clearance, others frequently raided China Town in the name of protecting local industries. It also argues that Nigerian traders’ and consumers’ perspectives on substandard made-in-China products differed sharply from those of the Nigerian state and manufacturers. In addition, the chapter looks at employment relationships between Chinese traders and Nigerian employees within China Town.
