In the last two years, Nigeria has enacted crucial reforms to revitalise its mining sector, aiming to attract investment and enhance its GDP contribution. Initiatives have streamlined licensing processes and reduced barriers for international investors, improving mineral production across Nigeria’s 44 solid mineral types. The upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) 2025 will gather stakeholders and global investors to promote deals and sector growth.

The Nigerian Geological Survey Agency launched the Mineral Resources Decision Support System in May 2024. This platform offers global investors quick access to geological and policy data, showcasing Nigeria’s mineral wealth and infrastructure. By enhancing data transparency, it aims to facilitate investments and bolster investor confidence in the mining industry.

In August 2023, Nigeria restructured its Ministry of Mines and Steel Development into two entities to improve efficiency. The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development focuses on upstream activities, while the Ministry of Steel Development oversees steel and metallic resource development. This change is designed to enhance governance and attract targeted investments.

The Nigerian Minerals & Mining Bill, approved in April 2023, is currently under public review and aims to bolster foreign investment. It introduces incentives and strengthens local content requirements, serving as the primary legal framework for the sector. Once implemented, it will improve transparency and align the sector with global standards.

The Nigeria Mineral Value Chain Regulations, effective from July 2021, mandate local processing of certain raw minerals, fostering downstream investment. This policy spurred significant investments, such as Avatar Energy Materials’ lithium processing facility in Nasarawa State. These developments position Nigeria as a vital participant in the global critical minerals supply chain, which will be highlighted at AMW 2025.

African Mining Week is a prime event to explore the diverse mining opportunities across Africa, running alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Interested parties can contact [email protected] for more information on participation.

Nigeria’s mining reforms aim to revitalise the sector, attract foreign investments, and enhance GDP contributions through improved governance, transparency, and local processing initiatives. The restructuring of ministries, introduction of supportive legislation, and the launch of a data access platform demonstrate a robust commitment to unlocking the mining industry’s potential. The upcoming AMW 2025 will further provide a vital platform for collaboration between local and international stakeholders.

Original Source: energycapitalpower.com

The post Nigeria’s Mining Reforms: Attracting Investment and Driving Growth first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nasarawa Governor Abdullahi Sule has called for the deregulation of Nigeria’s mining sector to enhance its potential. Speaking at the 60th Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society Annual Conference in Abuja, he advocated for reforms akin to those in the oil and gas industry, emphasising the need for modernization and liberalisation to attract investment.

Governor Sule highlighted Nigeria’s abundant mineral resources and criticized existing policies that impede growth. Reflecting on his oil industry experience, he underscored the importance of structured revenue-sharing and industry regulations to secure adequate returns for mining states.

During his term, he discovered that despite 416 mining licenses granted in Nasarawa, the state was receiving no significant financial returns, prompting him to challenge the National Economic Council regarding the lack of revenue compared to the oil sector. Recognising flaws in the licensing process, he issued an executive order to ensure that all minerals processed in the state before export, which boosted local investments.

He proudly noted that Nasarawa State now hosts Nigeria’s largest lithium processing plant and several other smaller tin mining operations. Governor Sule urged Nigeria to shift focus towards long-term industrialisation over short-term financial gains, drawing comparisons to China’s approach to mining development.

Sule remains determined to overcome resistance to regulations that would ultimately benefit the sector and the economy. Professor Akinade Olatunji, President of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, acknowledged the governor’s contributions to advancing mining reforms in Nigeria, culminating in a fellowship award presented to him during the event.

Governor Abdullahi Sule’s call for the deregulation of Nigeria’s mining sector underlines his commitment to modernising the industry. By improving revenue-sharing mechanisms and enforcing operational regulations, he aims to harness the nation’s mining potential for sustainable growth and investment. His proactive measures reflect a determined effort to transform the sector into a vital component of Nigeria’s economy.

Original Source: dailypost.ng

The post Nasarawa Governor Advocates Deregulation of Nigeria’s Mining Sector first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Two Chinese companies, Canmax Technologies and Jiangxi Jiuling Lithium, have taken control of a Nigerian lithium refinery project, originally established in 2022 by Chinese entrepreneurs. The refinery, located in northern Nigeria, was controversial due to its name similarity to Ganfeng Lithium Group, a major global lithium supplier. The joint venture aims to enhance Nigeria’s lithium sector, which traditionally exports raw materials to China.

Ganfeng Nigeria initially confused the market when it began construction in 2023 and later clarified its lack of formal ties to Ganfeng Lithium Group. The project, with an estimated cost of $250 million, is set to boost local lithium production, coinciding with increasing Chinese investments in Africa’s lithium resources despite significant price drops.

Canmax Technologies plans to invest over $200 million in additional lithium mining sites in northern Nigeria, partnering with local company Three Crown Mines. The founder of Canmax, Pei Zhenhua, is notable for his investment ties to major electric vehicle battery manufacturers.

Nigeria is rich in untapped minerals, including lithium, but much of the extraction remains informal, conducted by small-scale miners. The Nigerian Ganfeng has secured a 10-year mining agreement under state government permits, with the refinery’s first phase expected to finish mid-year and the second phase in four months. Local officials express optimism about the investment’s potential.

The takeover of the Nigerian lithium project by Canmax and Jiuling represents a significant investment in Nigeria’s emerging lithium industry, aimed at satisfying increasing global demand. The collaboration highlights the trend of Chinese companies consolidating resources in Africa to secure essential materials for electric vehicle production. The project is poised to enhance Nigeria’s industrial capabilities while drawing attention to the challenges of informal mining in the country. Overall, these developments indicate a strategic shift in lithium sourcing closely aligned with rising electric vehicle demands.

Original Source: www.mining.com

The post Chinese Firms Expand Investment in Nigeria’s Lithium Refining Sector first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria is gaining global attention due to its vast lithium reserves, essential for sustainable energy technologies like electric vehicles (EVs) and solar panels. With Africa expected to contribute 20% of global lithium supplies by 2030, Nigeria is working to establish itself as a crucial competitor in the lithium market.

The country has begun constructing lithium processing plants, with two already operational and a third in progress. Segun Tomori, media assistant to the minister of solid minerals development, emphasised lithium’s importance, stating that it is increasingly sought after in discussions about green energy.

In 2022, the Nigerian government denied Tesla’s proposal to buy raw lithium, insisting on local processing to boost job creation and industrial growth. This reflects Nigeria’s evolving mining policies that prioritise domestic processing over raw material exports. Additionally, Nigeria is partnering with South Africa to enhance lithium’s role in the energy transition.

The Nigerian government aims to foster a favourable investment climate by addressing security issues and establishing technical partnerships with leading mining countries. Despite facing challenges, Nigeria’s commitment to lithium mining demonstrates its potential to lead Africa’s critical mineral sector.

Nigeria’s lithium reserves are positioned to play a transformative role in the global green energy landscape. By focusing on domestic processing and attracting international investors, the country is laying the groundwork to become a dominant player in lithium production. Collaborative efforts with nations like South Africa further underline its ambitions in the critical minerals industry.

Original Source: northafricapost.com

The post Nigeria’s Lithium Reserves: A Key Player in Global Green Energy Transition first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria is rapidly expanding its lithium extraction, especially in Nasarawa State, which holds significant reserves. The global surge in demand for lithium, powered by electric vehicle battery production, positions Nigeria as an up-and-coming player in this market. This growth attracts both local artisanal miners and foreign investments, highlighting the country’s potential in lithium production.

In regions like Gidan Kwano, artisanal miners extract lithium in open pits, often without permits. While illegal, this practice is a crucial income source for locals, including men, women, and children, who dig for lithium manually, sometimes using explosives. Raw lithium blocks are commonly sold to Chinese middlemen, and roadside warehouses are used for sorting and cleaning the mineral, although working conditions are generally poor and hazardous.

Chinese firms, such as Avatar and Ganfeng, have invested in local processing facilities to convert raw lithium into lithium oxide for export. China’s role in the lithium sector is increasing despite Nigeria’s attempts to diversify foreign investment sources. A recent agreement between Nigeria and France aims to promote mining projects, including lithium, though Chinese companies remain predominant due to regulatory obstacles faced by others like Tesla.

The Nigerian mining industry faces challenges from a developing regulatory framework and ongoing illegal mining operations. The government conducts enforcement against unauthorized mining, yet high demand fuels its persistence. Furthermore, local tensions and disputes over resource distribution have arisen, while armed groups have begun to control mining sites, complicating the landscape for lithium extraction.

With global lithium demand projected to soar by 2040, Nigeria is working to streamline its lithium sector for economic advantage. Key challenges include the establishment of local processing units and formalising mining activities. Future success will rely on effective regulation, attracting diverse investors, and securing mining zones, as interest in this strategic mineral grows among stakeholders.

The lithium demand surge is largely driven by its use in batteries for electric vehicles, causing countries rich in lithium resources, like Nigeria, to explore and develop their extraction capabilities. Nigeria’s lithium began gaining global attention due to its unregulated artisanal mining and considerable reserves, making it attractive to foreign investors, especially from China.

Nigeria’s lithium sector is poised for growth amidst shifting global demands. However, significant challenges arise from unregulated artisanal mining, foreign investment restrictions, and local tensions. Future success hinges upon effective regulation and the establishment of local processing plants to capitalise on the burgeoning market.

Original Source: energynews.pro

The post Nigeria Accelerates Lithium Extraction Amidst Global Demand first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria and France are strengthening their collaboration to enhance mining development following a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement was discussed at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, where Nigerian Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, and French Inter-Ministerial Delegate for Strategic Minerals, Benjamin Gallezot, sought to promote sustainable mining practices and decarbonisation in energy projects.

Gallezot announced that his department is reviewing applications from French companies wishing to invest in Nigeria’s mining sector and will provide a list of verified investors to the Nigerian ministry. Minister Alake expressed gratitude to Gallezot for his cooperation despite time constraints during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to France, addressing misinformation regarding the MOU’s objectives.

The MOU includes plans for research collaboration, knowledge sharing, and environmental rehabilitation, focusing on over 2,000 abandoned mining sites in Nigeria. During the Forum, discussions centred on sustainable practices, artisanal mining, geological exploration, and funding for training programmes.

Olusegun Ige, Director-General of the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency, highlighted the need for modern equipment to improve geological data exploration. Similarly, Simon Nkom from the Mining Cadastral Office urged for a comparative analysis of mining laws between the two nations.

Executive Secretary Fatima Shinkafi suggested co-funding for early-stage exploration projects, stating that the Nigerian Solid Minerals Fund has accumulated significant historical data from collaborations with financial entities. Christophe Poinssot from the French Geological Agency confirmed support for increasing geologist capacity in Africa, including Nigeria.

The MOU signed between Nigeria and France seeks to boost the mining sector in Nigeria through sustainable practices and technology advancement. It aims to address issues like environmental impact and rehabilitation of defunct mining sites, thus promoting a stronger, more responsible mining industry. The collaboration also involves sharing knowledge and coordinating training programmes to enhance the skills of those in the mining sector.

The collaboration between Nigeria and France marks a significant step in enhancing Nigeria’s mining development through sustainable practices and investment. The MOU aims to tackle environmental issues while promoting technological advancements and knowledge sharing. With committed efforts from both countries, the potential for growth in the Nigerian mining sector appears promising, benefiting both economies.

Original Source: businessday.ng

The post Nigeria and France Collaborate to Advance Mining Development first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria and France have initiated actions to implement the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed last month in Paris aimed at enhancing local mining development. This was discussed during the Future Minerals Forum held in Riyadh between Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, and Benjamin Gallezot, France’s inter-ministerial delegate for strategic minerals. The MOU focuses on sustainable mining, environmental protection, and energy decarbonisation.

Gallezot mentioned that his department is evaluating applications from French companies interested in investing in Nigeria’s mining sector. A shortlist of eligible investors will be sent to the Nigerian Ministry of Solid Minerals Development. Alake acknowledged the cooperation that led to the MOU’s establishment, countering any misinformation from political opposition regarding its objectives.

The collaboration between Nigeria and France aims to boost the mining sector in Nigeria by enhancing sustainable practices and cutting environmental impact. The MOU facilitates research partnerships, student training, and rehabilitation of abandoned mining sites. This partnership arises amidst a global focus on sustainable mining and resource management, which could attract investments and modernize Nigeria’s mining infrastructure.

Both countries are committed to fostering a robust mining sector through their MOU, focusing on sustainability, advanced technology, and investor engagement. Discussions at the forum highlighted essential areas such as artisanal mining and geological exploration, paving the way for improved mining laws and practices. The collaboration is expected to generate significant positive outcomes for Nigeria’s mining landscape.

Original Source: businessday.ng

The post Nigeria and France Collaborate to Enhance Mining Development first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, advocates for stronger trade relations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) particularly in the mining sector. During a meeting with UAE Ambassador Salem Shaeed Al Shams, Alake stressed the importance of a collaborative approach to tackling illegal gold trade, which currently sees much Nigerian gold entering the UAE unlawfully.

He pointed out Nigeria’s wealth in valuable minerals and the potential benefits of the UAE’s role as a mineral trade hub. Alake proposed working together to create strategies and a regulatory framework to ensure that both nations can profit legally from this trade, enhancing mutual benefits.

Al Shamsi confirmed the UAE’s commitment to deepening ties with Nigeria, highlighting the removal of visa restrictions and a recent MOU between Emirati companies and Nigeria through the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF). He also announced an economic forum set to be held in Nigeria with participation from 30 to 35 major Middle Eastern and Emirati companies, aimed at attracting Foreign Direct Investments (FDI).

To further combat illegal trading and enhance legitimate commerce, both countries agreed to form a technical committee to explore collaboration strategies. A statement from Segun Tomori, aide to the Minister, emphasised this commitment to cooperative efforts in the mining sector.

The article focuses on the relationship between Nigeria and the UAE, particularly looking at trade in the solid minerals sector, which is crucial for economic development. With significant illegal gold trading concerns, the ministers aim to establish a legal framework to enhance trade practices and benefit both countries. The initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen bilateral relations and increase foreign investments in Nigeria.

The meeting between Alake and Al Shamsi signifies strong bilateral interest in solid mineral trade. By addressing illegal activities and fostering legitimate commerce, Nigeria and the UAE can enhance their economic relationship. Upcoming forums and agreements indicate a robust commitment to advancing trade ties and investments in Nigeria.

Original Source: businessday.ng

The post Nigeria and UAE Strengthen Mining Trade Relations first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigerian Government is actively pursuing partnerships with international players in the mining sector to harness the nation’s capabilities. During the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Minister of State Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, highlighted Nigeria’s considerable resource potential and readiness for collaboration. She expressed a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and investment, positioning Nigeria as a key player in global minerals and energy. Dr. Uzoka-Anite urged global investors to explore the untapped opportunities available in Nigeria’s mining and energy sectors.

Attending alongside Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr. Dele Alake, Dr. Uzoka-Anite emphasised Nigeria’s openness for business at the Future Minerals Forum, which hosted over 14,000 participants from 178 countries, including government leaders and industry experts. The Nigerian delegation aimed to showcase the country’s extensive natural resources and support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s focus on economic growth through mining and energy collaboration.

The Future Minerals Forum serves as a significant platform for shaping the minerals industry’s future globally. Nigeria’s involvement at the forum illustrates its commitment to fostering international partnerships that drive economic advancement, aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu Administration, aimed at enhancing the country’s mining and energy sectors.

Nigeria is rich in natural resources, which presents significant opportunities for economic growth through the mining sector. The government is keen on attracting global partnerships to unlock these resources. With a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, Nigeria aims to improve its position in the global minerals market, enhancing its economic landscape in the process. Participation in international forums like the Future Minerals Forum reflects Nigeria’s strategy to engage globally and promote investment in its resources.

In summary, the Nigerian Government is seeking global partnerships to strengthen its mining and energy sectors. By showcasing its resource wealth at international forums, Nigeria is positioning itself as an emerging leader in the global minerals market. The ongoing efforts to attract foreign investment are aligned with the country’s broader economic agenda, aiming to stimulate growth and sustainability in critical industries.

Original Source: newtelegraphng.com

The post Nigeria Seeks Global Mining Partnerships to Strengthen Economy first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Tin mining in Nigeria’s Plateau State has been a significant source of income for locals, but its glory days are fading rapidly. Many former miners, like Jugu Samuel, are now seeking other employment due to diminishing resources and challenges in retrieval. Local mining activities, often unlicensed and conducted under unsafe conditions, have raised concerns about the environmental and economic implications of the dwindling supply of tin, which is crucial for various technologies.

The demand for tin has surged with the global shift towards renewable energy, making the substance critical for energy transition technologies like solar panels. However, illegal mining, poor regulatory enforcement, and corruption undermine potential revenue for the Nigerian government. Despite being the ninth-largest producer of tin globally, Nigeria faces shortages, with local miners and suppliers reporting drastic declines in accessible tin due to concerns over resource depletion and increasing insecurity in mining areas.

The situation surrounding tin mining in Nigeria highlights a pressing need for effective governance and regulatory frameworks that can balance economic benefits with environmental sustainability. The significant decline in supply calls for immediate action to explore untapped resources and revitalise the mining sector, ensuring it can meet local and global demands responsibly.

Original Source: dataphyte.com

The post Nigeria’s Tin Mining Faces Decline Amid Global Demand Rising first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.