Nigeria has announced the discovery of a world-class platinum-bearing mineral deposit in Kaduna State, marking a major boost to the country’s economic diversification and mining ambitions.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, disclosed this at the fifth African Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS) in Abuja.
According to the Minister, the newly verified polymetallic deposit contains exceptionally high-grade platinum and is regarded as one of the most significant mineral discoveries in Nigeria’s recent history.
Mineral exploration, investment
He said national geological agencies confirmed the find, describing it as a major breakthrough that could strengthen Nigeria’s position as a leading destination for strategic mineral exploration and investment.
Dr. Alake noted that the discovery places Nigeria among emerging global suppliers of critical and precious minerals, attracting new opportunities for international investors.
Game-changing asset
The minister described the Kaduna deposit as a game-changing asset capable of transforming the country’s solid minerals sector and expanding its contribution to economic growth.
He added that the discovery will support the implementation of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG) framework, which promotes local processing and value addition across the continent.
Under the initiative, African countries aim to ensure that minerals are refined, processed and manufactured within Africa to maximise economic benefits and create jobs.
