Minister of solid minerals development, Dele Alake has disclosed a new discovery of a “world-class” polymetallic mineral province containing platinum group metals including, gold, nickel, copper, lithium, and rare earth elements in Kaduna state.
Alake made the announcement while speaking in Abuja on Wednesday at the opening ceremony of the African natural resources and energy investment summit 2026. Additionally, he noted that the discovery is one of the most significant developments in Nigeria’s mining industry in recent years.
Meanwhile, the discovery comes following the unveiling of an estimated 3.3 million metric tonnes of lithium reserves by Steron Mining and Company Limited in its Abuja mining site during a facility tour organised for delegates of the summit.
According to Alake, the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency confirmed the discovery, a development that could strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global race for critical rare earth minerals.
Furthermore, the minister stated that the newly identified mining province holds exceptionally high-grade deposits of strategic minerals that global industries increasingly demand for clean energy technologies and advanced manufacturing.
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Alake said, “This is important for newsmen and stakeholders to take note, this is the first time I am announcing this publicly. Recent exploration breakthroughs verified by our Nigerian Geological Survey Agency have unveiled a world-class polymetallic mineral province in Kaduna state, consisting of world-class platinum group metals, precious, and critical mineral deposits.”
“The province is notable for significant deposits of gold, nickel, copper, lithium, and rare earth elements of exceptionally high grades, positioning Nigeria among the emerging destinations for strategic mineral resources and sustainable mining investment.
“This is a new discovery by a private company assisted by our agency, the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency.
Discovery Could Boost Economy
Following the discovery, analysts say developing these minerals can diversify Nigeria’s export base, adding to GDP (mining now at 4.6% of GDP) and creating jobs opportunities for ordinary Nigerians.
This stems from findings that Lithium (vital for EV batteries) and platinum (used in catalytic converters and electronics) both have a significantly high demand globally.
Evidently, mining revenues jumped from ₦6bn to ₦70bn between 2023 and 2025 — evidence of surging investor interest. Ensuring local refining and strong oversight will be key to turning this discovery into sustainable growth.
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