The Federal Government has pledged support to potential Qatari investors by providing comprehensive mineral data on Nigeria’s abundant lithium deposits.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Oladele Alake, made this commitment during a meeting with Qatari businessmen on the sidelines of President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Qatar.
According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the Minister, Kehinde Bamigbetan, the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency holds vital data that can facilitate the establishment of lithium companies in Nigeria.
Alake emphasized that Nigeria possesses significant lithium deposits, and the government-initiated mineral exploration has identified locations with commercial quantities and high grades of lithium.
He highlighted the recognition of Nigerian lithium quality by the global mining sector, citing laboratory analysis of rock samples from Nigeria.
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Encouraging Qatari businessmen to explore mining opportunities in Nigeria, Alake assured them of investor-friendly policies and generous support from the Nigerian government.
He urged investors to consider investing in mining infrastructure, emphasizing the government’s commitment to providing transportation facilities to mines.
Among the businessmen present at the meeting were Sheikh El Jouneid, Chief Executive Officer of ETCC Qatar, and Aminu Dahiru, Chairman of Asdub Oil & Gas.
Tinubu’s visit to Qatar, the third Gulf state he has visited since assuming the presidency nine months ago, was initially embroiled in controversy.
Qatar had initially rejected the business forum trip, citing the absence of a signed agreement between Qatar and Nigeria on investment and promotion.
However, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity clarified that the President was invited to participate in a business and investment forum during the visit.
