Kaduna Hosts Nigeria’s First World-Class Lithium Processing Plant

The Kaduna State Government has inaugurated Nigeria’s first world-class lithium processing plant, marking a significant milestone in the country’s drive to harness its solid mineral resources for economic diversification and green industrial growth.

Governor Uba Sani, who led the inauguration ceremony at Kangimi village along the Kaduna-Jos Road, described the project as a transformative investment that positions Kaduna at the forefront of Nigeria’s emerging mineral economy.

The facility boasts a processing capacity of over 30,000 tonnes of lithium per day and is expected to boost internally generated revenue, create jobs, and reduce the export of raw minerals.

“With this facility, Kaduna is taking the lead in building a sustainable and inclusive green economy,” the governor said, highlighting the project’s potential to attract investment, enhance value addition, and curb illegal mining activities across the state.

To guide the sustainable development of the sector, the state government has engaged Core International Marketing and Management Ltd. to draft a comprehensive Mining Development Roadmap.

The initiative aims to provide a strategic framework for exploration, investment, and environmental stewardship.

Kaduna is richly endowed with more than 70 solid minerals, including gold, tin, coltan, wolframite, titanium, and iron. The state’s mining development company has recently acquired 18 additional mineral titles to expand exploration activities.

In a move to integrate local miners into the formal economy, the government has helped organize artisanal miners into cooperative societies.

This formalization not only increases transparency and compliance but also provides support and training for sustainable practices.

Complementing its industrial ambitions, Kaduna State has also launched climate-focused programs, including a state policy on climate change and the empowerment of 500 youths and women in briquette-making as a cleaner alternative to firewood.

Governor Sani emphasized that the lithium plant and associated initiatives reflect his administration’s commitment to responsible governance, inclusive development, and environmental sustainability setting a benchmark for other states across the country.