KADUNA, Nigeria (May 2025) — Kaduna State Gov. Uba Sani has launched a lithium processing plant in Kangimi village, along the Kaduna-Jos road, as part of a broader effort to position the state as a hub for solid mineral development.
The initiative, announced by Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources Abubakar Buba, is intended to boost revenue, create jobs and curb illegal mining across the region.
The facility is part of a statewide strategy to expand Nigeria’s solid mineral processing capacity. Designed to handle more than 30,000 tonnes of lithium daily, the plant supports the federal government’s push toward green energy and sustainable economic growth.
In a statement, Buba said the mining sector contributed 30 million naira in revenue over the last two quarters, and the state expects higher returns in 2025. The project is also expected to generate new employment opportunities and drive local economic activity.
The state government is also moving to reduce illegal mining. According to Buba, authorities are working to form cooperative societies that will help transition former illegal miners into the formal sector. Officials hope the initiative will minimize environmental harm and promote long-term economic stability for affected communities.
Kaduna has also implemented broader climate resilience programs. These include the adoption of a state climate policy and the distribution of clean cooking stoves to 400 women and youth to reduce deforestation. In partnership with the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, the state has trained more than 500 people in briquette production to promote cleaner energy alternatives.
With more than 70 types of solid minerals identified within Kaduna, including lithium, gold, tin, coltan, wolframite, titanium and iron, officials say the state is well-positioned to become a leader in Nigeria’s mining sector. Continued investments in infrastructure and workforce training are expected to accelerate growth in the coming years.
