Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has commissioned a $200 million lithium mining and processing plant, saying responsible management of the state's mineral resources is key to driving economic growth, creating jobs and attracting sustainable investment.
Lawal unveiled the Zamfara Lithium Mining and Processing Plant on Saturday in Boko Village, Zurmi Local Government Area. The project is a joint investment by ZAM Mining Company Ltd., Bima Mines Ltd., Jinlide Mining Co. Ltd. and other partners.
The governor said the facility marks a shift from the state's long-standing dependence on raw mineral extraction to value-added processing that will benefit local communities.
"For many years, our state has been known within and outside this country as a haven of vast mineral deposits," Lawal said. "Our land is blessed with abundant resources; the measure of this blessing is how it is responsibly harnessed to improve the lives of our people."
He said his administration is reforming the mining sector by promoting lawful operations, attracting credible investors and strengthening collaboration with the Federal Government to ensure mining contributes to economic development.
Lawal said the growing global demand for lithium, driven by renewable energy, electric vehicles and modern technology, presents a major opportunity for Zamfara.
"The global economy is changing rapidly," he said. "Lithium and other critical minerals are central to the future of renewable energy, electric vehicles, modern technology and industrial transformation.
Zamfara State cannot afford to remain only a source of raw minerals; we must become active participants in the entire value chain."
According to the governor, the processing plant aligns with the state's plan to promote local processing, increase value addition, develop technical skills and expand industrial activities.
He assured investors that the state government would continue to provide a secure and business-friendly environment.
"We will strengthen security collaboration, improve infrastructure and develop policies that promote sustainable development," Lawal said.
"Our administration is committed to mining activities that respect the law, protect our environment and provide direct benefits to our communities."
Lawal also directed the operators of the plant to prioritize local employment, skills transfer, environmental protection and corporate social responsibility.
"The people of Boko Village and surrounding communities must see this investment as a partnership for development," he said. "The people's well-being must be enhanced."
He congratulated the investors and stakeholders involved in the project before officially declaring the lithium mining and processing plant open.
The commissioning comes as Nigeria seeks to expand investment in its solid minerals sector and encourage local processing to boost revenue, create jobs and reduce reliance on raw mineral exports.
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