Tinubu Warns Lithium Investors as Nigeria Targets Solar Panel Hub

…Says govt set to make Nigeria Africa’s solar panel, EV battery manufacturing hub

President Bola Tinubu has warned Lithium investors not to leave communities in ruins as they explore Nigeria’s high-grade minerals. He made this remark during a meeting with Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State and Chinese executives from Avatar New Energy Materials Company Limited and Canmax Technologies.

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Tinubu commended the inauguration of Nigeria’s largest lithium processing plant in Lafia, Nasarawa State, and the announcement of a new $200 million investment by Canmax Technologies. He urged the companies to prioritize environmental protection, community engagement, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

The President emphasized Nigeria’s potential as a hub for solar panel and EV battery manufacturing, citing the country’s large market, skilled workforce, and dependable economy. He encouraged the investors to dominate the solar panel market in Africa and the West African sub-region through mutually beneficial collaboration with Nigeria.

Tinubu applauded Governor Sule and Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, for their dedication to environmental protection and value addition in the mining sector. He assured the investors of continued support and encouragement, reiterating that Nigeria is open for business.

Governor Sule thanked the President for his support and highlighted the potential of the lithium mining industry in Nasarawa State. Minister Alake emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing abandoned mines and ensuring that companies prioritize local value addition and community development.

The Chinese executives pledged to adhere to mining regulations and fulfill their corporate social responsibilities to host communities, describing their investments in Nigeria as worthwhile.