POLITICAL Economy

Nasarawa Commissions Lithium Plant, Boosts Industrialisation Drive

by admin on | 2026-07-03 22:14:49

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Nasarawa Commissions Lithium Plant, Boosts Industrialisation Drive

By Ahmad Sirajo Makama

Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has hailed the commissioning of a flagship lithium processing factory in Endo as a major boost to the state’s industrialisation drive.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Sule expressed satisfaction with the project, noting that it positions Nigeria as a preferred hub for value-added mineral processing in Africa. He also addressed critics of his administration’s economic vision.

“Today, I am fulfilled. Today, I’m proud and happy, for those who are looking for industrialisation and making a mockery of it, come to Endo and see what industrialisation is all about, and it’s right here,” the governor said.

The state-of-the-art facility, established by Diamond New Energy and led by Ambassador of Julong & Canmax, Mr Yu Chongqiang, is described as one of the most significant investments in Africa’s emerging critical minerals sector. Designed with modern processing technology, the plant is engineered to produce high-quality lithium concentrate while maximising resource recovery and operational efficiency.

The commissioning attracted top government officials, underscoring the national importance of the project. Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, alongside the Minister of Solid Minerals Development.

Governor Sule said the project aligns with the federal government’s economic agenda and supports President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He also expressed appreciation to the presidency, the minister, and early facilitators, including Mr Chang, who introduced the investors to the state.

He further highlighted Nasarawa State’s mineral resources and proximity to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, urging investors to partner with the Nasarawa Investment and Development Agency (NASIDA).

With production now underway, the Endo facility is seen as a step toward reducing Nigeria’s reliance on raw mineral exports and promoting local value addition.

Also speaking, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr Dele Alake, said the project demonstrates the effectiveness of the administration’s economic policies. He reiterated the government’s stance on discouraging the export of unprocessed minerals, emphasising the need for domestic processing to drive job creation and skills development.

“Our goal is to begin to produce lithium batteries, the vehicles, the phones, the solar panels, the solar-powered turbines, and every gadget that uses lithium as a base requirement for its performance. We want to produce everything in Nigeria. Diamond Energy has started, Nasarawa State has started, Nigeria remains on the go,” he said.

Mr Yu Chongqiang, Ambassador of Julong & Canmax, speaking on behalf of Diamond New Energy, said the company aims to play a key role in Africa’s clean energy manufacturing sector. He noted that the facility represents a new generation of mineral beneficiation and is capable of efficient, high-quality lithium production.

He added that the project is generating employment, supporting local businesses, improving logistics networks, and contributing to regional economic growth.

“As we look ahead, our ambition remains clear. We will continue to expand responsibly, embrace innovation, invest in people, and support Nigeria’s journey toward becoming a globally competitive hub for critical minerals and advanced industrial development,” he said.

Voice of Nigeria reports that the factory has already created over 1,000 direct jobs and more than 2,000 indirect employment opportunities since operations began.