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

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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.

In rural Nigeria, children as young as five are exploited in lithium mining, a critical component of the global green energy shift. Known as the “white gold,” lithium mining promises income, yet veils a harsh reality of child labour amidst poverty. As children face dangers in illegal mining operations, the supply chain extends to foreign markets, overshadowed by insufficient regulation and China’s controversial role in Nigeria’s mining industry. This exploitation ensnares vulnerable children in a perilous cycle, trapping them in labour rather than education and a brighter future.

Lithium mining has emerged as a pivotal industry in Nigeria, providing resources critical for renewable energy technologies. However, this growth has a dark side—children are increasingly drawn into the labour force due to extreme poverty. With Nigeria home to substantial lithium reserves, the demand for this mineral often leads to illicit mining activities that exploit the most vulnerable members of society, stemming from the lack of governmental support and stringent oversight to protect children and curb illegal mining practices.

The plight of child miners in Nigeria highlights a grim truth behind the lithium that fuels modern technology. With rampant exploitation driven by poverty and minimal regulatory frameworks, these children are forced to sacrifice their education and safety for survival. Until ethical practices replace profit motives in the global supply chain, the true cost of lithium will continue to burden these young lives, reinforcing a cycle of poverty and exploitation.

Original Source: mahabahu.com

The post Exploitation of Child Workers in Nigeria’s Lithium Mining first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The signing of the mining pact between France and Nigeria presents an opportunity for Nigeria to harness its mineral resources for economic diversification while strengthening ties with France. Although the pact can facilitate investment, technical expertise, and advanced technologies, Nigeria must navigate its complexities carefully due to regional tensions and historical grievances against France in West Africa. For Nigeria, the mining sector is a potential economic driver, but vigilance is essential to prevent exploitation and ensure local communities benefit significantly.

Nigeria’s dependency on oil has stifled its economic growth, thus, the mining industry, rich in resources like gold and tin, holds promise for diversification. Partnering with France, a leader in mining technology, could enable Nigeria to build a modern industry that generates jobs and attracts foreign investment. Yet, Nigeria’s recent experiences with military governments and accusations against France of neocolonialism linger, necessitating a cautious approach.

Lessons from the Niger Delta underscore the need for robust regulatory frameworks to guard against exploitation. Clear regulations should emphasize transparency, fairness, and sustainability to protect local interests. Developing local capacity in mineral processing and management is crucial; Nigeria must not overly rely on foreign expertise, as community involvement ensures shared benefits and stable relations.

France’s advanced technology could help monitor and regulate mining practices, averting resource conflicts similar to those experienced in the oil sector. However, it is paramount that these technologies are managed by local institutions to prevent manipulation. Furthermore, combating corruption is essential to secure Nigeria’s economic future, and collaboration among various government agencies can aid in addressing issues of illegal mining and smuggling.

The France-Nigeria mining pact aims to exploit Nigeria’s rich mineral resources as a means to diversify its economy, reduce dependence on oil, and strengthen diplomatic relations with France. While presenting an opportunity for economic growth through mining, the deal comes with risks due to historical tensions in West Africa regarding France’s alleged neocolonial practices. Both nations face the challenge of ensuring that this partnership leads to sustainable development without repeating past exploitative patterns seen in other resource-rich countries.

To maximise the benefits of the France-Nigeria mining pact, Nigeria must adopt a cautious yet strategic approach. Prioritising community involvement, regulatory integrity, and capacity building are fundamental to prevent the pitfalls of past resource exploitation. By asserting its sovereignty and maintaining rigorous oversight, Nigeria can transform this collaboration into a beneficial venture for its people and the economy.

Original Source: www.thisdaylive.com

The post Navigating Opportunities and Risks: The France-Nigeria Mining Pact first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria recently concluded a three-day conference celebrating National Mining Week, highlighting its commitment to enhancing its mining sector. With a focus on attracting investments, the Nigerian government aims to leverage the global increase in mineral demand to diversify its economy. This initiative is part of broader efforts to reduce reliance on oil and tap into the potential of the mining industry to foster economic growth.

The Nigerian economy has been historically reliant on oil exports, making it vulnerable to fluctuating global prices. In light of this, the government is actively seeking to diversify by investing in various sectors, including mining. The National Mining Week conference underscores the government’s dedication to this goal, providing a platform for stakeholders to discuss opportunities and strategies to enhance the mining sector’s contribution to the economy.

In summary, Nigeria’s focus on expanding its mining industry is a strategic move aimed at economic diversification. By capitalising on the global demand for minerals, the country intends to shift its economic dependence away from oil, ultimately fostering sustainable growth and investment in the sector.

Original Source: www.voaafrica.com

The post Nigeria Aims to Expand Mining Sector to Diversify Economy first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria is intensifying its efforts to regulate illegal mining operations as part of a campaign to manage its mineral resources better. The global demand for minerals like lithium and tin, essential for the clean energy transition, has led to an upsurge in illicit mining activities within the country, exacerbated by corruption and minimal government oversight in remote areas. Recent actions include a raid in Kishi, Oyo State, where security forces arrested 32 individuals, including two Chinese nationals, involved in illegal lithium trade. Local community leaders report growing concerns about insecurity linked to illicit mining. President Bola Tinubu has linked illegal mining to escalating conflicts in northern Nigeria, prompting calls for international assistance. China plays a significant role in Nigeria’s mining landscape, often employing vulnerable populations affected by conflict and climate change. To mitigate the losses from illegal mining, estimated at $9 billion annually, Nigeria has established a corps of mining marshals tasked with tackling unlawful activities. Recent legal actions against illegal miners highlight the government’s commitment to combatting this issue.

Nigeria is emerging as a significant source of key minerals like lithium, crucial for global renewables, amid diminishing supplies from leading producers. Illegal mining has flourished due to inadequate regulatory frameworks and widespread corruption, endangering national security by funding militia groups. The country’s geography complicates enforcement, as many mineral deposits are in remote, inaccessible areas. The influx of Chinese miners has raised concerns over exploitative practices, environmental degradation, and links to local conflicts, particularly in Nigeria’s north where conflict-induced displacement has created a cheap workforce for mining operations.

Nigeria’s crackdown on illegal mining reflects its urgent need to regulate an industry marked by corruption and violence. The government’s establishment of mining marshals and recent arrests signal a drive to restore order and revenue in the extractive sector. The involvement of foreign nationals underscores the complexity of this issue, intertwining economic, social, and environmental factors.

Original Source: www.voaafrica.com

The post Nigeria Strengthens Crackdown on Illegal Mining Activities first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.