The Federal Government is poised to enter into a partnership with the Nasarawa State government to implement a localized lithium processing strategy, shifting away from the practice of exporting raw lithium.
Dr. Bashir Gwandu, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), disclosed this collaborative effort during a visit by Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, the Governor of Nasarawa State.
Gwandu emphasized that this processing policy aligns with NASENI’s commitment to promoting the processing of Strategic Solid Minerals, especially to facilitate the local production of batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage. Nasarawa state is recognized for having substantial lithium deposits in Nigeria.
NASENI has actively sought to attract investment and local partners for the processing of lithium, ranging from its extraction to the creation of final battery products for local use and export. The initiative has garnered interest from companies, particularly those from China, who have visited NASENI in response to this call.
Governor Sule expressed his enthusiasm for collaboration with NASENI, highlighting that companies have shown interest in processing up to 6,000 tonnes of lithium per day in Nasarawa state. He likened the current situation to a “Lithium Rush,” reflecting the surge in lithium prices globally.
Sule proposed the utilization of NASENI’s Solar in Gora facility as a lithium processing and battery production plant, considering its proximity to raw materials and the NASENI Solid Minerals Institute.
The Governor emphasized the importance of cooperation between NASENI and the state, as well as the potential for Nigeria to become a major lithium producer globally. He also revealed plans for a “Lithium Rush Summit” as part of the state’s second economic summit.
