Governor Dauda Lawal has unveiled a $200 million lithium mining and processing plant in Boko Village, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, describing the project as a major milestone in the state’s drive towards industrialisation, responsible mining and sustainable economic development.
The facility, a joint investment by ZAM Mining Company Ltd, Bima Mines Ltd, Jinlide Mining Co. Ltd and other partners, is expected to boost local value addition, create employment opportunities and position Zamfara as a key player in Nigeria’s solid minerals value chain.
Speaking during the inauguration on Saturday, Governor Lawal said the establishment of the processing plant marks the beginning of a new phase in unlocking Zamfara’s vast mineral potential through responsible investment, industrial growth and transparent resource management.
He noted that while Zamfara has long been recognised for its abundant mineral deposits, the true value of those resources lies in how they are responsibly harnessed to improve the lives of citizens.
The governor said his administration had remained committed to transforming the state’s solid minerals sector from informal operations to an organised, transparent and value-driven industry.
According to him, the government has continued to support reforms that promote lawful mining activities, attract credible investors and strengthen collaboration with the Federal Government to ensure that mining contributes meaningfully to economic growth and development.
Governor Lawal observed that lithium and other critical minerals have become increasingly important in the global transition to renewable energy, electric vehicles and advanced technologies, stressing that Zamfara must move beyond the export of raw minerals to local processing and value addition.
He said the new processing plant aligns with the state’s vision of promoting industrial development, enhancing technical skills and creating sustainable employment opportunities.
The governor assured investors of his administration’s commitment to providing a conducive business environment through improved security, better infrastructure and policies that encourage responsible and sustainable mining.
He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that mining operations comply with the law, protect the environment and deliver tangible benefits to host communities.
Governor Lawal directed the operators of the plant to prioritise the employment of local residents, facilitate skills transfer, implement community development initiatives and uphold strong environmental standards as part of their corporate social responsibility.
He urged residents of Boko Village and neighbouring communities to embrace the project as a partnership for development that would contribute to the socio-economic advancement of the area.
The governor subsequently declared the Zamfara Lithium Mining and Processing Plant officially open, congratulating all stakeholders whose collaboration made the project a reality.