Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has disclosed that a Chinese company is constructing two lithium mining and processing facilities in the state, highlighting China's strategic interest in Nigeria's abundant lithium reserves.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television's Sunday Politics, Governor Sule explained that China's focus on Nigeria is part of its broader clean energy revolution and multi-billion dollar investment plans for Africa.

"China is actually now in a clean energy revolution, that is what is happening and China is getting ready to invest a multi-billion dollar in Africa, and in Africa they decided to focus on Nigeria," the governor stated.

According to Sule, China recognizes Nigeria as the undisputed leader in the West African market, citing the country's population of over 220 million people, the region's total population of 400 million, and Nigeria's GDP approaching $480 billion as key factors influencing this strategic partnership.

The governor emphasized the potential economic impact of lithium mining, suggesting it could replace oil as Nigeria's main revenue source. "This is another oil that is coming, that is how God has blessed Nigeria in particular and this is the way to go," he remarked.

Sule stressed the importance of removing political barriers to investment, stating, "The moment we take politics out of it and allow investors to make decisions correctly, then I think Nigeria is in for it."

While acknowledging that the lithium facilities will create employment opportunities for state residents, Governor Sule noted that the number of jobs might not match those generated by the agricultural sector. However, he highlighted that the experience gained by workers in these companies would significantly contribute to the state's development and overall economic growth.

Lithium, a critical component in batteries for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems, is increasingly in demand globally as countries transition to cleaner energy sources. Nasarawa State is known to have significant deposits of this valuable mineral, alongside other regions in Nigeria.

The development comes as Nigeria seeks to diversify its economy beyond oil and gas, with the mining sector identified as a key area for growth and foreign investment.