Nigeria's Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has announced the discovery of major mineral deposits in Kaduna State. He disclosed the find at an event held in Abuja.
According to the minister, a new world-class helium province has been identified in Kaduna State. The province is said to hold significant deposits.
Alongside the helium, the discovery is reported to include significant deposits of other critical minerals. These were cited as including gold, nickel, lithium and platinum.
The development has raised expectations for increased investment and higher earnings from the mining sector. It is being presented as a boost for the country's economy.
The announcement comes amid rising global demand for critical minerals, driven largely by the transition to clean energy. Such minerals are increasingly sought after on the international market.
According to the government, the discovery strengthens Nigeria's position in the international minerals market. It is also framed as supporting efforts to attract investment and diversify the economy beyond its traditional reliance on oil.