Adeboje Lukman
The Federal Government has announced the discovery of significant deposits of lithium, rare earth elements and other strategic minerals in parts of the country, describing the find as a major breakthrough for Nigeria’s mining sector.
According to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, geological exploration has identified a world-class polymetallic mineral province in Kaduna State, containing lithium, rare earth elements, platinum group metals, gold, nickel and copper.
The government also disclosed that an estimated 3.3 million metric tonnes of lithium reserves have been identified at another site near Abuja following extensive geological surveys.
Officials said the discoveries have the potential to boost economic diversification, attract foreign investment and create jobs, while strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global market for critical minerals used in electric vehicle batteries, renewable energy technologies and advanced electronics.
The Federal Government noted, however, that further exploration, feasibility studies and commercial development are required before full-scale mining can begin. It reaffirmed its commitment to developing the solid minerals sector through responsible and value-added mining practices.