The massive exploration of lithium by notable foreign conglomerates has placed Nasarawa State at a vintage position as the renewable energy center in Nigeria and probably the entire West Africa.
The commissioner of information and culture in the state, Dr. Ibrahim Tanko, stated this during an event to highlight the midterm achievements of the Governor Abdullahi Sule-led administration in Lafia.
LEADERSHIP reports that lithium, a highly reactive metal, is used in energy-dense rechargeable batteries used in cell phones, electric vehicles and grid storage among others.
Dr. Tanko said knowing how critical the mineral is in the global quest for a safer and reliable alternative to fossil fuel, Governor Abdullahi Sule was able to create the enabling environment which sparked investors’ interest in its exploration.
He said with the deluge of activities going on by companies prospecting the mineral into different end uses, the country’s first electric vehicle would come from the state.
He said apart from lithium, other minerals such as gold, tin, tantalite, barytes, limestone and gemstones among others were also attracting investors to the state.
According to him, the state government is equally working to attract investors to its huge tourism potential and rich cultural heritage with a view to harnessing them for the benefit of the people.
He said sites such as Farin Ruwa Falls, Keana Salt Mining Village and the Ombi Hills were veritable revenue earners for the state if accorded the required attention.
“The government is committed to showcasing our cultural heritage and promoting tourism in the state.
We have set up a committee in our ministry to ensure that investors and tourists come to invest in the state. We are working towards having Nasarawa Cultural Festival to showcase our cultural heritage,” he explained.
He said the state would strengthen the Nasarawa Broadcasting Service (NBS) to become a leading platform for information dissemination in the state.
