Nigeria has discovered high-grade lithium, previously producing 50 metric tons in 2019. While global demand for lithium is surging, primarily for batteries, this find does not assure commercial viability. The exploration process is lengthy and challenging, requiring specific economic conditions and regulatory compliance. Environmental concerns also accompany mining activities, necessitating proper oversight.
Recently, high-grade lithium reserves have been located in Nigeria, with the country previously producing 50 metric tons of lithium in 2019. In contrast, Zimbabwe’s production that year was markedly higher at 1,200 metric tons. Geologist Ibrahim Garba provided insights on the significance of this find. Lithium is a crucial metallic mineral used mainly in battery production, with expectations that by 2030, 95% of lithium demand will stem from batteries, up from less than 30% in 2019. Varieties of lithium-ion batteries are prevalent in electronics and electric vehicles (EVs), each with distinct properties and costs. The world’s largest lithium mine is in Greenbushes, Australia. Global lithium production reached 100,000 tonnes in 2021, showing a clear trend of increasing demand, largely due to the shift towards clean energy and the growing electric vehicle market. Australia, Chile, and China lead global production, accounting for 86% of total output. While Nigeria’s lithium discovery indicates potential, it does not guarantee a commercially viable deposit. The path from discovery to marketable extraction is long and fraught with challenges, typically taking 5 to 10 years for a deposit to become operational. For a successful development, economic grades, market conditions, and regulatory frameworks are crucial. Nigeria’s lithium minerals, known to occur alongside tin and columbite-tantalite in pegmatite formations, are located in several states including Nasarawa, Kogi, Osun, and others. Despite numerous occurrences, commercially exploitable deposits have yet to be developed, even with increased exploration efforts. Mining activities, while potentially profitable, raise concerns about environmental degradation. Effective mining regulations and thorough environmental assessments are essential but are often poorly enforced in Nigeria, compounding the risk of pollution and habitat destruction.
The lithium market is rapidly evolving due to the increasing demand for electric vehicles and clean energy solutions. Lithium is a key component in batteries, therefore, its discovery in new regions can significantly impact the global supply chain. Nigeria’s recent lithium find offers potential, yet the complexities of establishing a productive mining operation remain significant. Understanding the geographical distribution of lithium and the associated challenges is vital to grasp the implications of this discovery.
Nigeria’s lithium discovery highlights the country’s potential as a future lithium supplier amidst rising global demand. However, the journey from discovery to commercial production involves numerous obstacles, including geological, regulatory, and environmental considerations. While the find is promising, it underscores the need for thorough exploration and adherence to sustainable mining practices.
Original Source: theconversation.com