Tinubu Inaugurates Major Lithium Processing Plant in Nasarawa

President Bola Tinubu has commissioned a large-scale lithium processing plant in Nasarawa State, marking a significant step in the federal government’s push to transition from raw mineral extraction to industrial value addition. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President inaugurated the facility in the Endo community of Nasarawa Local Government Area on Thursday.

The newly commissioned plant, operated by Diamond New Energy, boasts an annual processing capacity of three million metric tonnes and a daily output of 6,000 metric tonnes. According to project officials, the initiative has already generated over 1,000 direct jobs and more than 2,000 indirect employment opportunities for the local population.

During the ceremony, President Tinubu emphasized that Nigeria’s path to economic greatness lies not in the mere possession of natural resources, but in the ability to convert them into finished goods through technology, disciplined enterprise, and industrial organization. He stated that the government’s policy shift against the export of raw minerals is designed to build a robust industrial ecosystem, create local expertise, and ensure that Nigeria plays a leading role in the global energy transition.

“What changes a nation is a deliberate movement from extraction to processing, from potential to production, from raw materials to value-added goods,” the President remarked. He praised Governor Abdullahi Sule for creating a business-friendly environment that has successfully attracted major investors to the state.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, reaffirmed the government’s stance, noting that the administration will no longer authorize the export of raw minerals without local processing. He highlighted the broader vision for the sector, which aims to eventually produce lithium-ion batteries, electric vehicles, and solar energy components entirely within Nigeria.

Governor Sule lauded the investors for their commitment to the state and urged other stakeholders in the mining sector to take advantage of Nasarawa’s abundant deposits of lithium, zinc, copper, and gold. He also assured the local host community that they would be the primary beneficiaries of the industrial development.

Representing the operating company, Diamond New Energy, Yu Chongqiang stated that the facility is part of a larger strategic vision to strengthen supply chains and support Africa’s clean energy future. He highlighted that the company’s investment extends beyond mining to include workforce development, modern infrastructure, and long-term partnerships with the Nigerian government.