Japaul Gold begins gold processing at Libeli Mine, shifting to commercial production with industrial expansion planned for late 2026

Japaul Gold & Ventures Plc has officially commenced gold processing at its Libeli Mine site, marking the company’s transition from exploration to full-scale mining operations.

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This milestone follows the successful delivery and test-running of a pilot processing plant.

In a formal notification to the Nigerian Exchange Limited and investors, the company stated that the development culminates more than four years of geological exploration, acquisition of statutory mining titles, and regulatory approvals.

Japaul Gold holds four mining leases across Taraba, Niger, and Osun States, positioning the firm among emerging indigenous players seeking to deepen Nigeria’s solid minerals value chain.

Pilot Plant and Expansion Plans

The pilot facility at Libeli Mine is designed to process both hard-rock and alluvial gold deposits, with an estimated monthly production capacity of 18,000 to 21,000 grams. Commercial production is scheduled to begin in May 2026.

As part of its growth strategy, Japaul Gold plans to commission an industrial-scale processing plant in the fourth quarter of 2026.

This larger facility is projected to boost monthly output to 210,000 grams of gold, aligning with the company’s roadmap to scale annual production and strengthen its footprint in Nigeria’s mining sector.

Technical Expertise and Governance

Operations at Libeli are overseen by Canadian Managing Director (Mining), Mr. David Dawson, who brings over 30 years of experience in large-scale mining operations across North and South America.

He is supported by a mix of local and expatriate specialists with extensive experience in African gold fields.

Governance enhancements include the ratification of the Board of Directors under Chairman Mr. Segun Oloketuyi, with executive management led by Acting Group Managing Director Mr. Henry Alakhume and Chief Financial Officer Mr. Adegboyega Adebukunola. Corporate compliance and governance oversight are guided by Royal Heritage Solicitors & Advocates.

Strategic Industry Significance

Analysts note that Japaul Gold’s move to operational production at Libeli represents a major step for Nigeria’s gold mining sector, supporting government efforts to diversify revenue sources, boost exports, create jobs, and improve foreign exchange earnings.

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The company’s pilot operations and planned industrial-scale expansion signal growing confidence in Nigeria’s mining potential and a push to formalise and scale the nation’s solid minerals industry.