BY ANTHONIA EMMANUEL
Nigeria’s mining sector is witnessing a major breakthrough as four lithium processing plants, with a combined investment exceeding $800 million, are scheduled to launch this year. This development, disclosed by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, highlights the government’s commitment to industrialization and value addition in the mineral sector.
In a statement shared on social media, Alake revealed that construction is nearly complete on two major facilities, one located between Kaduna and Niger States, and another $200 million refinery near Abuja. Two additional plants are expected to become operational in Nasarawa State before the end of the third quarter.
“These projects will not only boost local production and processing of lithium but also create jobs, enhance technological transfer, and strengthen Nigeria’s economy,” Alake stated.
He emphasized that robust exploration data is key to attracting serious investment. Prior to the current administration, Nigeria had spent a mere $2 million on mineral exploration. In contrast, Côte d’Ivoire and South Africa invested $148 million and $300 million respectively, putting Nigeria far behind in terms of geological credibility.
To close that gap, the ministry has secured a ₦1 trillion investment dedicated solely to mineral exploration. This move is intended to lay the groundwork for a competitive and investor-friendly mining sector.
The minister also addressed the government’s intensified crackdown on illegal mining activities. “Last year alone, we made over 300 arrests. Currently, 150 cases are in court, with several convictions secured, including against foreign nationals involved,” he said.
Efforts are also being made to support small-scale miners by formalizing their operations. Over 250 mining cooperatives have been established, enabling access to financing and increasing revenue-sharing opportunities for local operators.
Nigeria now chairs the African Mineral Strategy Group, a regional coalition promoting value addition and equitable trade across the continent. This leadership position further reflects Nigeria’s rising influence in Africa’s mineral economy.
Investor confidence is surging, as shown by the over 10,000 applications recently received by the Mining Cadastral Office in a single quarter , a figure Alake says is unprecedented.
“We are transforming our mineral wealth into tangible economic impact. These reforms are part of President Bola Tinubu’s vision to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector,” he concluded.
