In a major step towards unlocking Kaduna State’s vast mineral wealth, the Kaduna Mining Development Company (KMDC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Galileo Scientific Ltd, a leading exploration, mining, and processing firm specializing in rare earth minerals based in New York promoted by a Diasporan Nigerian Dr Mathew O Idoni.
The partnership aims to accelerate mining and local processing of critical minerals such as lithium-ion, gold, copper, tantalite, and manganese found within Kaduna’s rich pegmatite belts. Under the agreement, Galileo Scientific will establish operations in the state, processing minerals both for domestic consumption and export to its chemical conversion facilities and joint ventures abroad.
Speaking on the development, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State emphasized that the collaboration will help realize the company’s mandate of transforming Kaduna’s mineral wealth into sustainable prosperity. With KMDC licensing its assets to Galileo, the deal is expected to generate quality employment, attract new investments, and strengthen industrialization in the state.
Dr Idoni of Galileo Scientific described the MoU as a “forward-looking partnership” that aligns with Nigeria’s ambitions to become a hub for mineral processing in Africa. He further stated that Nigerians in Diaspora were enthusiastic about investing in Nigeria within the right frameworks. The signing was witnessed by Nigeria’s Consul General in New York, Amb Abubakar Jidda who facilitated the partnership amongst other many forward looking initiatives of the Nigerian Consulate.
The move underscores Kaduna’s growing role as a center for mining innovation, economic diversification, and community development delivering tangible benefits for its people while positioning the state as a key player in the global minerals value chain.