Copyright nigerianeye
Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has revealed that Chinese companies have invested over $1.3 billion in lithium processing in Nigeria since he took office, signaling growing confidence in the country’s solid minerals sector. Speaking at the 2025 China Mining Conference in Tianjin, Alake, through a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, highlighted the significant influx of foreign investment and urged global investors to explore Nigeria’s abundant mineral resources, including lithium, gold, lead-zinc, barite, and rare earth elements. The minister attributed the investment surge to ongoing reforms, a favorable business climate, and improved security measures under the current administration. “Nigeria offers immense opportunities for investors in the solid minerals sector. Our policies are designed to create a conducive environment, and we are committed to ensuring security and transparency,” Alake said. He encouraged Chinese and other international firms to deepen their stakes in Nigeria, emphasizing the strategic importance of lithium and other critical minerals in the global transition to clean energy. The $1.3 billion investment, Alake noted, underscores Nigeria’s potential to become a key player in the global minerals market. The minister’s pitch comes as Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy away from oil dependency, with the solid minerals sector positioned as a cornerstone of growth. Stakeholders at the conference expressed optimism about Nigeria’s reforms, with Alake’s address reinforcing the country’s openness to strategic partnerships in mining and processing. Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
