Kwara State has welcomed the commissioning of a $20 million lithium processing plant as part of efforts to enhance local value addition and promote industrial growth in the region.
The facility was established by Chinese firm ER-KANG Company Limited and officially flagged off in the state, aligning with government policies to move away from exporting raw minerals to developing in-country processing and manufacturing capacity.
Sun Qing Rong, Team Lead of ER-KANG Company Limited, noted that the plant will process lithium a key mineral used in batteries and other high-tech applications into finished materials, helping to capture more value within Nigeria’s economy instead of shipping minerals abroad in unprocessed form.
The lithium plant has already begun operations and currently employs more than 300 workers, most of whom are indigenes of Kwara State, contributing to job creation and skills development in the host community.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq welcomed the investment, describing it as a major step toward industrialisation and economic diversification for the state. He highlighted the importance of creating an enabling environment that attracts foreign direct investment, boosts local manufacturing, and drives sustainable economic growth.
The Chinese investor also disclosed plans to establish a pharmaceutical manufacturing company valued at more than $15 million in Kwara, with preparatory work already underway. The pharmaceutical project, expected to begin later this year, will further strengthen the state’s industrial base when completed. Governor AbdulRazaq reaffirmed the state government’s readiness to support additional investments and partnerships that will expand economic opportunities, create jobs, and accelerate development across multiple sectors.
