The Federal Government has announced the discovery of substantial deposits of platinum, gold, nickel, copper, lithium, rare earth elements and other strategic minerals in Kaduna State, marking a significant milestone for Nigeria’s mining sector.
Speaking at the 5th African Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS 2026) in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, said recent exploration activities confirmed by the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency revealed a world-class polymetallic mineral province in Kaduna.
According to Alake, the discoveries position Nigeria as an emerging hub for strategic minerals, with high-grade deposits that are increasingly important for modern technology and global energy transition efforts.
He noted that the findings strengthen Nigeria’s standing in the international minerals market while opening up fresh opportunities for investors interested in critical mineral resources.
The minister also welcomed ongoing moves to ratify the Africa Minerals Strategy Group Charter, saying Nigeria’s renewed role within the framework comes with a responsibility to collaborate with other African nations in maximizing value from the continent’s mineral wealth through local processing, refining, manufacturing, technology transfer and skills development.
Alake stressed that Africa’s mineral resources can only drive industrial growth when supported by reliable energy systems, efficient transportation networks, accessible financing and integrated markets.
He urged stakeholders at the summit to translate discussions into concrete investments capable of creating jobs, strengthening regional value chains and accelerating economic growth across Africa.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to attracting investment, the minister invited local and international investors to take advantage of incentives in the solid minerals sector, emphasizing support for projects that promote local processing, technology transfer, employment generation and sustainable development.
He added that mining and mineral processing require significant capital and long-term financing strategies to fully unlock their economic potential.
Alake further highlighted the need to equip African youths with the skills required for the future of the mining industry, noting that growing demand exists for geologists, engineers, metallurgists, environmental specialists, data analysts, financiers, logistics experts and entrepreneurs across the sector.
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