Lawal unveils $200m lithium processing plant in Zamfara, targets 2,000 jobs | Vanguard (NG) | 01KXBX0XRWAYF8BVEQJ97X63CR

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has officially opened a $200 million lithium mining and processing plant in Boko, Zurmi Local Government Area. Governor Lawal described the facility as a catalyst for economic rebirth in the state, marking the beginning of a new era for responsible mining and industrial development.

The project represents a significant milestone in the collective effort to harness Zamfara's abundant mineral resources. Governor Lawal emphasized the administration's commitment to transforming the solid minerals sector from informal, unregulated activities into an organized, transparent, and value-driven industry that directly benefits the people. He highlighted the increasing global demand for lithium and other critical minerals, driven by renewable energy and electric vehicles.

“

For many years, our state had been known within and outside this country as a haven of vast mineral deposits. The measure of this blessing is how it is responsibly harnessed to improve the lives of our people. From the inception of this administration, we made a firm commitment to change the narrative of the solid minerals sector in Zamfara from informality to organisation, from exploitation to value creation, and from lost opportunities to shared prosperity.

Lawal stressed that Zamfara must move beyond being a mere supplier of raw materials. The state needs to participate actively across the entire mining value chain through local processing, value addition, skills development, and industrialization. He commended Zam Mining Company Ltd, Bima Mines Ltd, Jinlide Mining Co. Ltd, Bevo Mines Ltd, Generalized Mining Company Ltd, and other development partners for their investment, signaling Zamfara's openness to legitimate businesses.

The governor assured investors of continued government support through improved collaboration, infrastructure development, and policies encouraging sustainable investment. He also stressed the importance of treating local communities as partners in development, ensuring employment opportunities, skills acquisition, community projects, environmental protection, and meaningful corporate social responsibility. The $200 million plant is a joint venture involving Zam Mining Company Ltd, Bima Mines Ltd, Jinlide Mining Co. Ltd, and other partners.

“

Development comes when resources are managed efficiently and transparently, and government provides an enabling environment for investors to operate responsibly.