From Abel Zwànke, Lafia

Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule has assured that state will benefit significantly from the $200 million lithium processing plant being established by Jiuling Lithium Mining Company in Endo, Nasarawa Local Government Area.Speaking during an inspection of the construction site yesterday, the governor said the project would create employment opportunities for the people of the state, particularly those with technical skills relevant to the mining industry.

”I asked them how this industry would benefit Nasarawa State and its people. They assured me that they would employ our citizens, especially those with technical qualifications, and pay them a minimum of N500,000. That is what I also confirmed today,” Governor Sule stated.He encouraged young people in the state to study technical courses to qualify for positions in the company, emphasizing that without the right skills, employment opportunities would go to candidates from other states.”If we have sufficient qualified technicians and engineers from Nasarawa, they will be employed first. But if we don’t, the company will have no choice but to hire from elsewhere,” he said.Sule also expressed satisfaction with the company’s adherence to environmental protection measures, stating that their excavation methods minimize pollution and align with industry standards.”As an engineer, I am satisfied. The excavation is done in layers to ensure minimal environmental impact. They have conducted their Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and are complying with it,” he explained.In response to the company’s request for security, Governor Sule assured that the state government, in collaboration with the Federal Government, had already taken steps to secure the area.”Five years ago, this place was unsafe, but with the help of the Federal Government, we established a military super camp nearby and built the road from Mararaba, which forced out criminals. I have also invited the Commissioner of Police and other security heads to ensure security concerns are addressed,” he stated.The Managing Director of Jiuling Lithium Mining Company, Xiong Jin, confirmed the company’s commitment to completing the project, which will be one of the largest lithium processing factories in the country.”We are investing $200 million in this project and will ensure it benefits the people of Nasarawa. Graduates employed at the mining site will earn a minimum of N500,000. However, we need the state government’s support in providing security and infrastructure,” Jin said.