President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the senate President, Godswill Akpabio, on Friday, unveiled a Lithium processing factory constructed by Avatar New Energy Materials Limited, a Chinese company.
The event, held at Kama Otto in Nasarawa Local Government Area, exemplified a robust partnership between the federal government, the state, and private investors.
Dignitaries at the event included the Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, federal lawmakers, former state leaders, and traditional rulers.
President Tinubu, in his address, hailed the collaboration as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to economic diversification. He emphasized the strategic significance of the Lithium Company, foreseeing its role in positioning Nigeria as a major player in the global Lithium market.
Tinubu stated, “Realising the benefits of Lithium and other mineral resources, our administration will continue to pay particular attention to the maximum utilisation of the product for the benefit of our people.”
Furthermore, he articulated the government’s aspiration for comprehensive value chain processing of Lithium and other minerals. Tinubu urged both domestic and international companies to engage with Avatar Company, emphasizing its pivotal role in Nigeria’s growth trajectory.
Acknowledging the support received during the previous Presidential election, Tinubu expressed gratitude to the people of Nasarawa with the tangible contribution of the Lithium processing factory. He underscored the transformative impact of Nigeria’s participation in the production value chain of Lithium, heralding a new era of technological partnership and empowerment.
Governor Abdullahi Sule commended President Tinubu and the local communities for their instrumental support in attracting such investment to Nasarawa. He highlighted the remarkable transformation of the region, previously plagued by security challenges, into a conducive environment for industrial development.
The Minister, Dele Alake emphasized the profitability and feasibility of similar ventures, noting the increasing interest from investors. He advocated for robust protection of Lithium battery companies from foreign competition, citing their pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic resurgence.
