The first Lithium processing plant being constructed in Nasarawa State, Nigeria is almost ready for commissioning.
The Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule made the disclosure during a visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake in Abuja the nation’s capital.
He also hinted at collaboration with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), for the utilization of Lithium produced by the State as a raw material for the production of solar panels, motor vehicle batteries amongst others.
“We had extensive discussions with NASENI for the use of our lithium as a raw material for their products and in the area of agriculture. I think that is one important thing that you are going to see from our Lithium processing plant. NASENI comes in to buy the pure Lithium so that they can be used in the manufacture of solar panels and motor vehicle batteries and their likes”, Governor Sule said .
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development applauded Nasarawa State for supporting the establishment of a lithium processing facility in the State and providing an enabling environment for mining operations.
Alake emphasised that the investment of the State in the construction of the lithium factory and efforts to secure the mining environment in Nasarawa underscores the commitment of the State Government to mining sector development.
“I want to commend the governor for taking the bull by the horn and providing adequate security for mining sites. That is why we have a preponderance of peace around mining operations in Nasarawa. I commend that to other state governments as well. Also worthy of commendation is the immense support the state has provided for the construction of the lithium processing factory, which is nearing completion. It will be one of the largest lithium processing factories in Nigeria”, the Minister added.
Urging other States to take a cue from Nasarawa, Alake asserted that partnerships with the federal government and private sector are paramount to ensure that the local value addition objective of the Tinubu administration is realised.
The facility, known as the Ganfeng Lithium Industry Limited factory, will be situated in the Endo community of Udege Development Area within the Nasarawa Local Government Area.
Once constructed and fully operational, the plant is expected to be capable of processing 18,000 tons of lithium per day and 4.5 million tons per annum with a value of US$250 million
