ReElement Technologies Corporation has entered a strategic partnership with UK-based Jupiter Lithium to develop Nigeria’s first large-scale lithium deposit. Located 100km from Abuja, Jupiter’s project spans 442 km² of lithium-rich terrain, marking a significant step in establishing Nigeria as a regional hub for lithium mining, battery production, and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing.
Mark Jensen, CEO of ReElement Technologies, emphasized the environmental and economic advantages of their refining technology. “We are excited to sign our first large-scale spodumene supplier partnership to be refined in the region. Our technology is environmentally safer, more cost-efficient, and can be deployed globally,” he said. Jensen also praised the collaboration with Jupiter, expressing confidence in quickly unlocking the project’s potential to become one of the largest lithium ventures worldwide, with production costs in the lowest quartile.
Jupiter Lithium plans to transition from contract mining to large-scale operations, including the construction of a spodumene concentrator. This facility will initially produce 55,000 tons of 6% lithium spodumene concentrate annually starting in early 2025, increasing to 167,000 tons within two years. ReElement Technologies will design a refinery to convert this concentrate into high-purity, battery-grade lithium carbonate and other essential minerals.
Stephen Davis, Chairman of Jupiter Lithium, highlighted the project’s significance for Nigeria’s shift from oil and gas to clean energy. “The scale of the Jupiter lithium discovery has the potential to provide the momentum required to commence Nigeria’s transition to clean, solid energy,” he said. Davis added that in-region processing of ore to concentrate and carbonate could spur new development for Nigeria’s energy and mining sectors, creating numerous economic opportunities.