Dr. Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has emphasised the significant role of Nasarawa State in the country’s mining sector, particularly in the extraction of critical minerals such as lithium. During a meeting in Abuja on Friday with Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule and Minister of Defence Abubakar Badaru, Dr. Alake outlined the state’s importance as a central hub for mining activities.
“Lithium is a major resource in Nasarawa, positioning the state as the epicentre of Nigeria’s mining industry,” Dr. Alake stated. He noted the strategic need for ongoing cooperation with Governor Sule to expand mining initiatives in the region, with strong support from both the state government and the Ministry of Defence. Dr. Alake also highlighted that the recent reforms in the mining sector are attracting increased global attention to Nigeria’s solid mineral resources.
Governor Abdullahi Sule acknowledged the successful implementation of President Bola Tinubu’s mining development agenda, but also pointed out the continuing challenge of insecurity in some mining areas. He called for further collaboration with the federal government to address security issues and ensure the smooth continuation of mining activities. Governor Sule shared that lithium factories in Nasarawa are operating efficiently, with additional factories currently under construction, further solidifying the state’s place in the mining value chain.
Minister of Defence Abubakar Badaru reiterated the federal government’s commitment to tackling insecurity across the nation, noting that military operations have already led to the resumption of mining in states like Zamfara. “The military will continue its efforts until security is fully restored nationwide,” Badaru stated, adding that the President had set a clear deadline to resolve insecurity by the year’s end.
Dr. Alake expressed confidence that ongoing reforms would attract more global investment to Nigeria’s mining sector. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming the industry into a significant contributor to the nation’s economy. With Nasarawa emerging as a critical player in the mining sector, the continued partnership between the federal and state governments, along with the private sector, is expected to enhance mining operations, bolster security, and improve Nigeria’s standing in the global mining market.
