Nigeria’s Mining Sector Sees Major Transformation with Chinese-Backed Lithium Plants
Nigeria is taking significant steps towards revolutionizing its mining industry by introducing two groundbreaking lithium processing plants this year, with substantial support from Chinese investors. The country’s mining minister revealed that a $600 million facility located near the Kaduna-Niger border is set to be inaugurated in the current quarter, while a $200 million refinery close to the nation’s capital is nearing completion. Additionally, two other plants are under construction in Nasarawa, with an anticipated finish before the third quarter. These initiatives are aimed at shifting Nigeria’s focus from exporting raw minerals to fostering domestic value creation, including the generation of employment opportunities and the advancement of technology. This strategic move is in line with broader reforms that emphasize local processing, formalizing artisanal mining practices, and encouraging increased investor involvement.
Source: Reuters
