President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed plans for Nigeria to become a leading producer of solar technologies for Africa. Speaking during a meeting with Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, President Tinubu emphasised the importance of collaboration between China and Nigeria to dominate the solar panel market in Africa and the West African sub-region.
President Tinubu commended the inauguration of Nigeria’s largest lithium processing plant in Lafia, Nasarawa State, highlighting it as a testament to the country’s appeal for foreign investment. He urged Chinese firms to prioritise environmental protection and corporate social responsibility in their operations, emphasising the potential for solar panel and battery production in Nigeria.
Expressing confidence in Nigeria’s skilled workforce and vibrant economy, President Tinubu underscored the country’s capacity to produce solar technologies locally. He emphasised the need for sustainable mining practices and community engagement by mining firms operating in Nigeria.
Governor Sule and the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, were praised by President Tinubu for their efforts in environmental protection and value addition in the mining sector. He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for investment and trade with European partners.
Governor Sule expressed gratitude for President Tinubu’s support for solid mineral development, highlighting the potential for lithium mining in Nasarawa State. Mr. Alake outlined proactive measures by the Ministry of Solid Minerals to address risks posed by abandoned mines and promote indigenous participation in the mining sector.
The Chinese executives pledged to adhere to mining regulations and fulfill corporate social responsibilities to host communities. Avatar, a Chinese firm, commissioned the lithium processing plant in Nasarawa State, while Canmax Technologies announced a new investment of $200 million for another lithium processing plant in the state.