President Bola Tinubu lauded the inauguration of Nigeria’s largest lithium processing plant in Lafia, Nasarawa State, viewing it as a significant milestone that highlights the country’s appeal for foreign investment.
His remarks came during a meeting with Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State in Abuja, where Tinubu was joined by Hi Yongwei, Chairman of Avatar New Energy Materials Company Limited, and Zhenhua Pei, Chairman of Canmax Technologies.
The lithium processing plant, constructed by Avatar, a Chinese firm, has the capacity to produce about 4,000 metric tonnes daily. Additionally, Canmax Technologies, another renowned Chinese firm responsible for over 30% of global battery material production, has announced a new investment of $200 million for another lithium processing plant in Nasarawa State.
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President Tinubu welcomed the inauguration of the plant and the announcement of new investment plans, urging the Chinese firms to prioritize environmental protection, community engagement, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
He emphasized Nigeria’s potential as a significant market for solar technologies and encouraged the production of solar panels and batteries within the country. Tinubu also praised Governor Sule and Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, for their efforts in ensuring environmental protection and value addition by mining firms operating in Nigeria.
Governor Sule expressed gratitude for Tinubu’s support for solid mineral development in Nigeria and highlighted the economic potential of the newly commissioned company in Nasarawa State.
Minister Alake outlined proactive measures to address risks posed by abandoned mines across the country and emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting indigenous participation and economic empowerment in the mining sector.
The Chinese executives expressed satisfaction with their investments in Nigeria and pledged to adhere to mining regulations while fulfilling their corporate social responsibilities to host communities.