Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has commissioned a $200 million lithium mining and processing facility in Boko, Zurmi Local Government Area, describing the project as a major step towards economic transformation and industrial growth in the state.
The governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Gusau, where he quoted Lawal as saying the plant represents the beginning of a new phase in Zamfara’s pursuit of responsible mining, job creation and economic diversification.
According to the governor, the facility marks a significant achievement in efforts to harness the state’s mineral wealth through responsible investment, local processing and sustainable development.
Lawal said his administration was determined to reposition the solid minerals sector by moving it away from informal practices and unregulated exploitation into a structured, transparent and productive industry that would deliver tangible benefits to residents.
He noted that the growing global demand for lithium, driven by renewable energy, electric vehicles, advanced technology and industrial development, presents an opportunity for Zamfara to play a bigger role in the mining value chain.
The governor said the state must move beyond being a supplier of raw minerals by embracing processing, value addition, technical skills development and industrialisation.
He praised the investors behind the project, including Zam Mining Company Ltd, Bima Mines Ltd, Jinlide Mining Co. Ltd, Bevo Mines Ltd, Generalized Mining Company Ltd and other partners, for their confidence in Zamfara’s economic potential.
Lawal assured investors of continued government support through improved partnerships, infrastructure development and policies aimed at promoting sustainable businesses.
He also emphasised the need for host communities to benefit directly from mining activities through employment opportunities, skills training, community development projects, environmental protection and corporate social responsibility programmes.
“Development comes when resources are managed efficiently and transparently, and government provides an enabling environment for investors to operate responsibly,” the governor said.
The lithium mining and processing plant, which is a joint venture involving several companies, is expected to create more than 2,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities, with priority given to qualified residents of Zamfara, particularly those from host communities.
Lawal said his administration remained committed to mining activities that comply with regulations, protect the environment and improve the living conditions of local communities.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its efforts in repositioning Nigeria’s solid minerals sector as a major contributor to economic diversification.
Meanwhile, Zam Mining Ltd, described as one of Africa’s most technologically advanced mineral processing facilities, praised the governor’s administration for creating a business-friendly environment that attracted major investments to the state.
Residents of Boko community welcomed the development, expressing optimism that the project would help reduce unemployment and poverty within the community and across Zamfara State.