The Federal Government has unveiled plans to establish three lithium processing factories in Nasarawa, Kaduna and Abuja. The move is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global battery manufacturing industry.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima disclosed this on Monday in Abuja. He said Nigeria must move beyond exporting raw minerals and importing expensive finished products.
Government targets local value addition
Shettima spoke through Tope Fasua, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Economic Affairs. He delivered the address at an international conference on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Geoeconomics of African States.
He said Africa must take greater control of its natural resources. According to him, exporting raw materials limits the economic benefits available to producing countries. He stressed that local processing and manufacturing would create more value.
Shettima also identified lithium as a strategic resource. Its growing importance in battery production presents an opportunity for Nigeria to expand its industrial capacity.
Nigeria seeks stronger position in global markets
The Vice-President noted that global competition now extends beyond conventional trade. Critical minerals, energy security and advanced technology have become major economic priorities.
He urged African countries to invest in processing facilities, infrastructure and modern manufacturing. He also called for stronger partnerships between governments and private investors.
Shettima identified financing, technical skills and research as essential to industrial development. He said Nigeria must build the capacity to compete across different stages of global production.
The proposed factories are expected to support the country’s efforts to retain more value from its mineral resources.
However, the government has not disclosed their investment costs, ownership arrangements or construction timelines.
He maintained that Africa must move from supplying raw materials to producing finished goods. This, he said, would strengthen the continent’s bargaining power and create more opportunities for economic growth.
Source :FG to establish three lithium processing factories to cut battery imports
