Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja
Nigeria has taken a major step toward strengthening its position in the global minerals value chain following the groundbreaking of a $400 million rare earth processing plant in Ukeh, Nasarawa State.
The project executed by Hasetins Company in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development marks a significant push toward mineral refinement, industrialisation, and economic self-reliance.
Leading the groundbreaking ceremony, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, described the project as “a patriotic revolution” and a defining moment in Nigeria’s march toward industrial renewal.
Highlighting the soaring global demand for rare earth minerals driven by electric vehicles, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing, Alake said Nigeria must seize the opportunity presented by its vast mineral deposits.
“We thank God for giving Nigeria billions of the rare earth minerals the world needs. The groundbreaking of this $400 million plant is a clear testimony to Nigerian drive and capacity,” he said.
He noted that Nigeria has already demonstrated capacity for domestic refining with the Dangote Refinery (crude oil), Segilola (gold), and lithium processors like Avatar and Asba, adding that the Hasetins Group would now extend that legacy to rare earth minerals.
Alake described the initiative as evidence of a “new era of national confidence,” attributing the gains in the solid minerals sector to President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, including financial restructuring, subsidy reforms, and strengthened public accountability.
Read Also: Nasarawa Government to Drive AI Adoption in Tertiary Institutions
Managing Director of Hasetins Company, Mr. Jidayi Ijudigal, said the plant positions Nigeria at the forefront of global demand for rare earth elements—critical components in renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, electronics, and military systems.
“This plant represents a bold step into a future with immense potential for innovation, sustainability, and advancement,” he said.
He assured Nigerians that the facility would operate responsibly, adopt sustainable practices, create significant job opportunities, and contribute to both local and national economic growth.
The company, he added, remains committed to environmental protection and community-focused development.
Ijudigal also applauded the Nasarawa State Government for providing a safe and investor-friendly climate.
Nasarawa Welcomes Investment
Representing Governor Abdullahi Sule, Deputy Governor Dr. Emmanuel Akabe described the plant as a transformative project capable of positioning Nasarawa—and Nigeria—as a major hub for advanced manufacturing.
He praised the Nigerian government for implementing policies that have boosted investor confidence and thanked Hasetins Group for choosing the state as host to the landmark project.
“Rare earth elements are what drive the world today. This investment signals a transformative opportunity for Nigeria and Africa,” he said.
Global statistics show that Nigeria ranked 24th out of 166 countries in total mineral production in 2023, producing 108.4 million metric tonnes, and 20th globally in mineral value at $48.9 billion.
The new plant is expected to significantly boost these figures, enhancing the nation’s capacity to refine minerals locally and reducing its dependence on foreign processors.