The Federal Government has thrown its weight behind a $400 million investment project to establish Africa’s largest rare earth and critical minerals processing plant in Nasarawa State.
The project, led by Hasetins Commodities Limited, is expected to create over 10,000 jobs across Nigeria and significantly boost local value addition in the mining sector.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, described the initiative as a major step toward industrialisation and a direct response to President Bola Tinubu’s mandate to prioritize value addition in the solid minerals sector.
During a meeting with Hasetins’ executives, Alake praised the company’s expansion plans—from an installed capacity of 6,000 metric tonnes to 18,000 metric tonnes—as a sign that ongoing sector reforms are delivering real results.
“This landmark project proves that our reforms are attracting serious investments. We are witnessing the emergence of Africa’s largest rare earth and critical metals facility here in Nigeria,” he said in a statement by his media aide, Segun Tomori.
Alake noted that the facility would not only generate employment but also promote skills development, technology transfer, and greater integration of mining into the national economy.
Hasetins Commodities, which specialises in rare earth elements and platinum group metals, said its strategy centres on early-stage beneficiation—locally pre-separating minerals to help artisanal miners earn more.
Company CEO Prince Jidayi cited improved investor confidence under Alake’s leadership, noting reforms such as the introduction of mining marshals to curb illegal mining and streamlined licensing processes.
“In addition to this flagship facility, we are setting up regional separation plants and supporting local miners with training, safety equipment, and empowerment programs,” Jidayi added.
Hasetins’ Director of Corporate Affairs, Peter Butt, commended the federal government for creating an enabling environment, crediting the minister’s push for local value addition as key to the company’s sustainable, community-focused approach.
In response, Alake pledged full institutional support and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making solid minerals a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic diversification and industrial growth strategy.
Once operational, the plant will enhance Nigeria’s standing in the global critical minerals supply chain, providing essential raw materials for high-tech industries, renewable energy, and defence systems.
