The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has announced the discovery of a world-class polymetallic mineral province in Kaduna State, describing it as one of the most significant breakthroughs in Nigeria’s mining sector in recent years, SavannahNewnow Reports.
Alake made the disclosure on Wednesday while speaking at the opening ceremony of the African Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit 2026 in Abuja.
According to the minister, the newly discovered mineral belt contains substantial deposits of platinum group metals, gold, nickel, copper, lithium and rare earth elements, resources that are critical to modern industrial development and the global energy transition.
He said the discovery underscores Nigeria’s vast untapped mineral potential and reflects the success of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to expand geological exploration and attract investment into the mining sector.
Alake noted that the development is expected to boost investor confidence, create employment opportunities and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a leading destination for mineral exploration and mining in Africa.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to responsible and sustainable mineral development, adding that efforts are underway to ensure that host communities benefit from the economic opportunities associated with the discovery.
Industry stakeholders at the summit described the announcement as a major milestone that could significantly contribute to Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda and reduce dependence on oil revenues.
