In a landmark development poised to transform Kaduna State’s economic landscape, Senator Uba Sani, the Governor of Kaduna State, officially inaugurated the state’s first lithium processing plant in Kangimi.
This state-of-the-art facility is the result of a strategic partnership between the Kaduna State Government and Ming Xin Mineral Separation Nigeria Ltd.
The partnership, formalized through a joint venture agreement (JVA) on March 31, 2024, allocates 30% equity to the Kaduna State Government and 70% to Ming Xin Mineral Separation Nigeria Ltd.
The ambitious project promises significant economic benefits, including the creation of over 3,000 jobs across the Kuriga mining site and the Kangimi processing plant. With an initial investment of $12 million, this figure is projected to soar to $50 million within the next year.
“This lithium processing plant is a testament to Kaduna State’s rich mineral endowment and our commitment to industrial growth and employment creation.
“This project not only taps into our vast mineral resources but also boosts investor confidence and stimulates local employment.”
The Kangimi plant, currently in its first phase, boasts an initial processing capacity of 1,500 metric tonnes of lithium per day. Plans are already in place to double this capacity to 3,000 metric tonnes per day in the project’s second phase.
Lithium, an essential element for the production of glass, aluminum products, and batteries, is set to become a cornerstone of Kaduna’s industrial output.
Further extending the economic impact, Ming Xin Mineral Separation Nigeria Ltd. intends to establish a tiles production facility utilizing by-products from lithium processing, generating an additional 500 jobs.
Kaduna State is rich in a variety of minerals including gold, manganese, tin, columbite, tantalite, iron ore, and numerous gemstones, making it a prime location for such industrial ventures.
Governor Sani emphasized the state’s ongoing efforts to foster an investment-friendly environment, aimed at boosting investor confidence, enhancing internal revenue, and creating sustainable job opportunities for its residents.
The inauguration of the Kangimi Lithium Processing Plant marks a significant milestone in Kaduna State’s economic development, heralding a new era of industrial growth and job creation.
