By Oso Abidemi
Nigeria has kicked off a major industrial push with the launch of a $400 million rare earth and critical metals processing plant in Uke, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, an initiative expected to transform the nation’s position in the global minerals value chain.
The project, driven by indigenous firm Hasetins Commodities Limited, will be the largest rare earth processing facility in Africa, with an annual capacity of 12,000 metric tons.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule hailed the initiative as a historic milestone that will accelerate industrialisation and turn the state into a high-technology production hub.
He said the plant would domesticate the processing of strategic minerals-including platinum, uranium, chromium, tungsten, tin, coltan and tantalum, critical to electric vehicles, medical equipment, defence systems, and advanced manufacturing.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar said the investment aligns with Nigeria’s development goals and global partnerships, adding that it will generate jobs and support the country’s technological ambitions.
Similarly, Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dele Alake described the project as proof of Nigeria’s determination to drive economic growth through value-added mining.
Minister of State for Labour and Employment Nkeiruka Onyejeocha commended the company for creating not just a facility but a full ecosystem that will support miners, service providers and innovators, calling the project a strategic path toward productive, job-driven growth.
Hasetins CEO, Prince Jidayi, said the initiative positions Nigeria to responsibly meet rising global demand for rare earth elements while boosting local economies and promoting sustainability.
He noted that the plant will create significant employment opportunities and adopt environmentally conscious practices.
The investment is expected to enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in the critical minerals sector and contribute to long-term industrial development.
