By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday commissioned Nigeria’s largest lithium processing plant in Nasarawa State on behalf of President Bola Tinubu. The facility, developed by Diamond New Energy Projects, aims to boost local mineral processing, create jobs, strengthen industrialisation, and position Nigeria as a major player in the global minerals economy.
Solid Minerals Key to Nigeria’s Economic Agenda
Speaking during the inauguration, Shettima said solid minerals remain critical to Nigeria’s economic transformation. He explained that modern technology depends on minerals such as lithium, gold, tin, iron ore, bitumen, coal, and rare earth elements.
According to him, Nigeria must convert its natural resources into economic opportunities instead of relying on raw mineral exports.
He said the new investment demonstrates growing confidence in Nigeria’s economy and ongoing reforms.
“The commissioning of Diamond New Energy Projects represents confidence in Nigeria, in Nasarawa State, and in the reforms introduced by this administration,” he said.
Value Addition Will Drive Industrial Growth
The Vice President stressed that true economic progress comes from processing minerals locally rather than exporting raw materials.
He said Nigeria must move from extraction to production by developing value-added industries capable of creating employment and strengthening local businesses.
Shettima added that lasting investments would encourage entrepreneurs to expand while giving young Nigerians better employment opportunities.
He described the solid minerals sector as one of the Federal Government’s strategic priorities because of rising global demand for critical minerals used in clean energy and technology.
Shettima Commends Nasarawa Government
The Vice President praised Governor Abdullahi Sule for positioning Nasarawa State as a leading destination for mining investments.
He also commended Diamond New Energy for investing in Nigeria at a time when the country is implementing major economic reforms.
According to him, the project reflects confidence in Nigeria’s long-term industrial potential.
Governor Sule Invites More Investors
Governor Abdullahi Sule welcomed local and international investors to Nasarawa State.
He described the state as one of Nigeria’s richest mineral-producing regions with significant untapped resources.
The governor also highlighted Nasarawa’s proximity to the Federal Capital Territory as a major advantage for investors.
He expressed confidence that the lithium processing plant would accelerate industrialisation and stimulate economic growth.
Federal Government Says Reforms Attracting Investment
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, said recent reforms have successfully attracted global investors to Nigeria’s mining sector.
He noted that the new processing plant reflects both the Federal Government’s reform agenda and Nasarawa State’s commitment to industrial development.
Alake expressed optimism that mining would become a major contributor to Nigeria’s economic growth and poverty reduction.
Calls for Lithium Battery Manufacturing
Senator Ahmed Wadada, representing Nasarawa West, praised the Federal Government, the state government, and Diamond New Energy for delivering the project.
He urged the company to establish lithium battery manufacturing facilities in Nigeria.
According to him, local battery production would increase value addition, create more jobs, and maximise benefits for host communities.
Host Community Welcomes Investment
Chairman of Nasarawa Local Government Area, Mohammed Ahmed, described the commissioning as a milestone for residents.
He said the plant would generate employment, increase internally generated revenue, and stimulate business activities across the area.
Ahmed also assured investors that the host community would continue to maintain peace and protect the investment.
Investors Plan Long-Term Expansion
The Ambassador of Jiuling and Canmax, Yu Chongqiang, said the companies selected Nasarawa because of its investment-friendly policies.
He revealed plans to expand operations in Nigeria as global demand for lithium products continues to grow.
Similarly, the Emir of Keffi, Shehu Chindo Yamusa III, said the project would strengthen Nigeria’s position in mineral processing and value addition.
He assured investors of the continued support of traditional institutions and host communities.
Outlook
The commissioning of Nigeria’s largest lithium processing plant marks another step in the country’s push to diversify its economy beyond crude oil. The project is expected to boost local mineral processing, encourage industrial development, create employment opportunities, and improve Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global clean energy supply chain.
