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 and Venezuela are exploring investment opportunities in the mining sector, as revealed in recent discussions between Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, and Venezuela’s Deputy Minister of Mining, Alejandro Martinez. Their talks took place during the Investing in African Mining Indaba Conference in Cape Town, South Africa, with a commitment to strengthening collaboration and attracting investments.

Minister Alake highlighted the potential for both nations to work together in sustainably utilising their mineral resources for economic benefits. He stressed the importance of local processing, particularly of lithium, to create jobs and enhance the economy instead of merely exporting raw materials.

Alake also invited Venezuela to join the Super Region, a coalition of mining countries aiming to promote trade and economic independence. The minister expressed openness to collaborations with investors who demonstrate commitment to sustainable practices and local value addition.

In response, Martinez noted Venezuelan investors are particularly interested in Nigeria’s market for mining machinery and services. He asked for Alake’s support in facilitating collaboration and encouraging investors to visit Nigeria for further information.

The discussions stem from ongoing efforts by Nigeria and Venezuela to enhance their mining sectors, utilising each country’s resources effectively. Both countries face similar political and economic challenges, which provides a unique opportunity for mutual cooperation. The Investing in African Mining Indaba serves as a strategic platform for countries to seek partnerships and investments.

The engagement signifies a strategic move towards deeper collaboration in the mining sector between Nigeria and Venezuela. By focusing on sustainable practices and local economic growth, both nations hope to leverage their mineral resources more effectively and create significant employment opportunities.

Original Source: von.gov.ng

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The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have introduced their Strategic Operational Plan for 2025, which aims to enhance field operations, improve regulatory compliance, and intensify actions against illegal mining activities. This strategy includes stronger collaboration with the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office for effective enforcement of mining regulations.

Engr. Obadiah Nkom, Director-General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office, praised the Mining Marshals for their professionalism and commitment to fighting illegal mining despite facing challenges. He recognised them as essential to national development, protecting mineral resources from economic threats.

Nkom lauded the NSCDC under the leadership of Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi for their integrity and efforts in fortifying the mining industry against illegal operations. AC John O. Attah, the Squad Commander, reiterated the Corps’ resolve to protect legitimate mineral rights and address community issues caused by unlicensed mining.

The Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office has committed to fully support the Mining Marshals, announcing initiatives to automate services and streamline licensing processes for better transparency and compliance. These developments indicate an escalation of enforcement actions against illegal mining in 2025, in collaboration with regulatory agencies.

The NSCDC Mining Marshals are tasked with safeguarding Nigeria’s mining sector by combating illegal mining activities. Their operations are crucial for ensuring legal compliance and maintaining the integrity of the country’s mineral assets. The strategic focus for 2025 highlights the urgency of tackling challenges posed by illegal miners and the need for effective regulatory measures.

In summary, the NSCDC Mining Marshals are gearing up for a proactive approach in 2025 with a clear operational plan that prioritises regulatory compliance and the fight against illegal mining. Their efforts will be bolstered by collaboration with the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office, highlighting a committed stance towards protecting the nation’s mineral resources and enhancing the mining sector’s integrity.

Original Source: prnigeria.com

The post NSCDC Mining Marshals Unveil 2025 Strategy Against Illegal Mining first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.