Warri Princess Emerges as Key Figure in $500M Kaduna Mining Partnership

Princess of Warri Kingdom and Chief Executive Officer of Anka Metals, Nere Emiko, has emerged as a key figure in Kaduna State’s landmark $500 million mining partnership with the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), following the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding aimed at fast-tracking the state’s solid minerals development.

Emiko, who is also a sister of the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, was recognised for her company’s pioneering role in advancing responsible mineral exploration and strategic investment in Nigeria’s mining sector.

The agreements, signed between the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the Kaduna Mining Development Company (KMDC) and the Jema’a Resource Project (JRP), establish a framework for financing and developing high-potential mining assets across Kaduna State, including the Gidan Waya mining project in Jema’a Local Government Area.

Governor Uba Sani described the agreements as a major milestone in Kaduna’s economic diversification agenda, noting that the state has confirmed commercially viable deposits of platinum group metals, gold, lithium, nickel, copper, cobalt, silver and rare earth elements.

During the signing ceremony, Governor Sani commended Emiko for Anka Metals’ commitment to responsible mineral development, while noting that Kaduna had become the first state-owned mining company in Nigeria to secure an exploration and development partnership with the AFC.

Emiko, whose Anka Metals operates under the Kian Smith Group, where she is Executive Vice Chairman, has been at the forefront of building integrated mine-to-market value chains in Nigeria. Her company is expected to provide technical expertise for the Gidan Waya project as it progresses from exploration to commercial production.

The Governor also acknowledged commendations from the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA), which praised Kaduna State’s transparent and science-driven approach to mineral exploration, describing it as a model for other states.

The $500 million partnership is expected to strengthen investor confidence in Kaduna’s mining sector, accelerate local value addition, create jobs and position the state as a leading destination for responsible mining and industrial investment in Nigeria.