President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ambition to position Nigeria as Africa’s hub for solar panel and EV battery manufacturing has received a significant boost with the Jupiter Project’s commitment to the cause.
The project, spanning 462 square kilometres of lithium-rich terrain, is Nigeria’s first Tier 1 mining operation.
With an investment of $2.5 billion, it is set to create 100,000 jobs, propelling Nigeria to the forefront of the global lithium market.
A statement issued by the Jupiter Project in Abuja on Monday stated that
it had begun enhancing the quality of life in host communities by providing potable water, electrification, schools, and education scholarships.
“Basin Mining Ltd and Range Mining Ltd, the joint developers of the Jupiter Lithium Project, have formalized an agreement with the Kaduna State Government to develop Nigeria’s largest lithium and critical minerals operation.
“Minister for Solid Minerals Development, Mr Dele Alake, has granted the necessary licenses, marking a pivotal step for Nigeria’s mining sector”, the statement said.
Speaking about the project, Ambassador, Hassan Tukur of Range Mining, emphasized the transformative nature of the approval, aligning with the government’s commitment to strategic, sustainable resource development.
“Range Mining’s lithium operations will boost local employment, enhance technological skills, and promote community engagement, aligning with President Tinubu’s goals in solar energy and electric vehicles.
“The Jupiter Project has a transformative impact on the local economy, setting a precedent for sustainable resource management and inclusive growth in the region”, he said.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of Kaduna Mining Development Company Ltd, Dr. Mohammed Nura Sanu Usaini, stressed the importance of local empowerment and environmental sustainability.
