Nasarawa emerging powerhouse of Nigeria’s Mining Revolution- Alake

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, says Nasarawa State is playing pivotal role in advancing mining sector, describing it as a critical hub for the industry’s growth.
Dr. Alake made the remark during a visit by Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, and the Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, in Abuja. He affirmed that Nasarawa has been a formidable partner in harnessing its vast mineral resources for national development.
“Lithium, for instance, is quite massive in Nasarawa State. It is like an epicenter of mining in Nigeria, which is why it is important for us to always collaborate with the governor to scale up mining activities. I have received very warm and robust cooperation from him and the Minister of Defence, all centered around the development of our solid minerals sector,” Dr. Alake stated.
The Minister highlighted that recent reforms and policy efforts in the past 17 months have started attracting global players to Nigeria’s mining sector.
Strengthening Security for Sustainable Mining
In his remarks, Governor Sule commended Dr. Alake for effectively driving President Bola Tinubu’s mining development agenda. However, he acknowledged that security challenges still persist in some areas, necessitating closer collaboration between the Ministries of Solid Minerals and Defence.
“The purpose of this meeting is to work together and find solutions to security challenges so that mining operations can proceed unhindered,” Governor Sule noted.
He also revealed that lithium factories in the state were operating at optimal levels, with additional facilities under construction, underscoring the importance of private-sector partnerships in strengthening Nasarawa’s mining value chain.
Federal Government’s Commitment to Ending Insecurity
Defence Minister, Abubakar Badaru reaffirmed the commitment of the federal government to eradicate banditry and criminal activities, particularly in mining areas. He noted that military operations have already facilitated the resumption of mining exploration in Zamfara State.
“The bandits are already on the run. The military will not rest until the country is fully secured. The President has given us a clear directive to end insecurity in all parts of the country by the end of the year. The National Security Adviser (NSA), the Chief of Defence Staff, and our team are working around the clock to actualize that target,” Minister Badaru assured.
With Nasarawa emerging as a key player in Nigeria’s mining transformation, ongoing collaborations between the federal government, state governments, and private investors are expected to drive the sector’s expansion and economic benefits.
By Rabi Momoh