In a bold move to transform Nigeria’s Kaduna State into a mining powerhouse, the Kaduna Mining Development Company (KMDC) has made significant strides in creating an enabling business environment for mining companies and investors. Under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Governor Malam Sen. Uba Sani, the state has witnessed groundbreaking developments in the mining sector, including the establishment of a lithium processing plant, formalisation of artisanal miners, and the promotion of sustainable mining practices.
Kaduna State is endowed with vast mineral resources, including gold, lithium, tin, and gemstones. However, harnessing these resources for economic growth requires strategic policies and investor-friendly frameworks. Recognising this, Governor Uba Sani’s administration has prioritised the mining sector as a key driver of industrialisation and job creation.
Through KMDC, the state government has implemented policies that reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, enhance transparency, and provide incentives for investors. These efforts have positioned Kaduna as a preferred destination for mining investments in Nigeria.
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One of the most notable achievements under Governor Uba Sani’s leadership is the establishment of a lithium processing plant. Lithium, a critical mineral for renewable energy technologies such as electric vehicle batteries, has seen soaring global demand.
KMDC, in partnership with private investors, has facilitated the setting up of this plant, marking a major milestone in Nigeria’s mining sector. The project not only adds value to raw lithium mined in Kaduna but also positions the state as a key player in the global green energy supply chain. This initiative aligns with the governor’s commitment to economic diversification and sustainable development.
Artisanal and small-scale miners (ASM) play a crucial role in Kaduna’s mining sector but often operate informally, leading to revenue losses and environmental degradation. To address this, KMDC, under Governor Uba Sani’s directive, has launched programmes to integrate artisanal miners into the formal economy.
Through cooperatives, licensing support, and access to funding, thousands of miners have been registered, ensuring better working conditions, fair pricing, and compliance with environmental standards. This initiative has not only improved livelihoods but also boosted the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) from the mining sector.
Governor Uba Sani’s administration has placed a strong emphasis on responsible mining. KMDC has been at the forefront of advocating for environmentally sustainable mining practices, ensuring that mining activities do not degrade the ecosystem.
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The company has partnered with regulatory bodies and international organisations to enforce reclamation policies, promote community engagement, and adopt cleaner mining technologies. These measures have enhanced Kaduna’s reputation as a state committed to balancing economic growth with environmental preservation.
The reforms spearheaded by KMDC have significantly boosted investor confidence. Several multinational mining firms have expressed interest in Kaduna’s mineral resources, thanks to the state’s transparent process, security improvements, and infrastructure development.
Governor Uba Sani’s vision is clear: to make Kaduna the mining hub of Nigeria. With ongoing projects such as the lithium processing plant, the formalisation of artisanal miners, and sustainable mining advocacy, the state is on track to achieving this goal.
KMDC’s achievements under Governor Uba Sani’s leadership demonstrate a successful model for mining sector transformation. By fostering an enabling environment for investors, supporting local miners, and prioritising sustainability, Kaduna State is setting a benchmark for mining development in Nigeria.
As the state continues to attract investments and implement innovative policies, the future of mining in Kaduna looks brighter than ever.