By Gift ChapiOdekina, Abuja

The Federal Government has said that the proposed $400 million rare earth processing plant in Nasarawa State signals a decisive break from Nigeria’s long-standing dependence on raw mineral exports and marks the country’s entry into the league of nations that earn wealth through value-added industrial production.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Hasetins Group’s 12,000-ton-per-annum rare earth and critical metals facility in Uke, Karu Local Government Area, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, said the project represents “a new industrial identity” for Nigeria.

He said the era where Nigeria exported crude minerals only to import refined products at high cost must end, stressing that President Bola Tinubu’s reforms now position the country to process, refine and profit from its own resources.

“This plant is more than an investment; it is a declaration that Nigeria will no longer be a warehouse of raw materials for other economies,” Alake said. “Countries that were behind us three decades ago are today industrial giants because they processed what they mined. Nigeria will now do the same.”

The minister said the Renewed Hope Agenda has already boosted confidence in the sector, leading to increased licensing revenues from N6 billion in 2023 to N26 billion by October 2025.

Citing successes like the Dangote Refinery, Segilola Gold Refinery and recently commissioned lithium processing plants, Alake said the Hasetins project will further establish Nigeria as a processing and value-add destination.

“This rare earth facility will prove that Nigeria can refine the minerals that power electric vehicles, defence technologies, electronics, and renewable energy systems,” he said.

Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule represented by Deputy Governor  Emmanuel Akabe said the state deliberately prioritised peace, infrastructure and investor-friendly reforms to attract transformative projects like the rare earth plant.

“Rare metals drive the world’s biggest industries. Having a processing plant here is something we will hold with both hands and both legs,” he said. “No nation attracts investment without stability. That’s why we invest heavily in security.”

Managing Director of Hasetins Group, Prince Jidayi, also speaking said that the facility is designed to produce jobs and long-term economic growth while meeting global environmental standards.

“We intend to generate up to 10,000 jobs, support local communities, and build a workforce that reflects the diversity of Nigeria,” he said. “As we break ground on this plant, we are also breaking ground on a new way of processing resources—one driven by innovation, sustainability and opportunity.”

“The facility will process rare earth elements essential for modern technologies, including renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, aerospace applications, consumer electronics, and defence. With global demand soaring, officials say Nigeria is positioning itself at the forefront of responsible and sustainable mineral processing.

“This plant represents a bold step into a future filled with innovation, sustainability, and advancement. Today marks a significant milestone not only for our company but for our community, our state, and the entire solid minerals industry.

“The facility will not only boost local and national economies but also create numerous opportunities in our communities, we are deeply committed to fostering a workforce that reflects the diversity and talent of the regions we operate in.”

“This project will also embrace sustainable practices, ensuring that we protect our environment while we innovate and advance.