The rising global demand for lithium, driven by the shift towards cleaner energy sources, highlights Africa’s growing potential in lithium mining. While Australia, Chile, and China dominate production, Zimbabwe is Africa’s leader in lithium deposits, attracting significant Chinese investment. The global effort to reduce carbon emissions has intensified interest in lithium, often dubbed ‘white gold’, vital for rechargeable batteries powering electronics and electric vehicles.

In 2023, global lithium consumption reached an estimated 180,000 tons, a 27% increase from 142,000 tons in 2022, showcasing an increasing reliance on this critical mineral. Although African nations hold approximately 5% of the world’s lithium ore reserves, many countries are increasingly turning to mineral mining as a new source of revenue, hoping to industrialise and transition from oil dependency.

President Ramaphosa of South Africa has expressed a desire to collaborate with Nigeria to develop critical minerals, particularly lithium. This partnership could leverage Nigeria’s lithium reserves for the growing electric vehicle sector. Lithium mining initiatives are burgeoning with new companies entering the market, signifying a change in focus across the continent.

Mining Review Africa has highlighted significant lithium mining projects across Africa, which include:
1. Zimbabwe – Arcadia
2. Zimbabwe – Bikita
3. DR Congo – Manono
4. DR Congo – Manono Tailings
5. South Africa – Blesberg
6. Mali – Goulamina
7. Zimbabwe – Zulu
8. Ghana – Ewoyah
9. DR Congo – Gangfeng
10. Namibia – Karibib

Zimbabwe ranks as the continent’s leading lithium producer, while Nigeria’s lithium market is still emerging, with significant deposits discovered only in 2018. China’s Avatar New Energy Materials has established the first lithium processing plant in Nigeria. Expanded efforts include approvals for new mining companies to commence operations, enhancing Nigeria’s industrial capabilities.

The article focuses on the burgeoning lithium mining industry in Africa amidst a global surge in demand for lithium, primarily due to the transition to cleaner energy sources and the rise of electric vehicles. It discusses the key players in the lithium market globally, noting Africa’s untapped potential in this sector, with Zimbabwe as a standout for its substantial lithium deposits supported by significant foreign investment.

In summary, Africa is poised to play a critical role in the global lithium market, with countries like Zimbabwe leading the way in deposits and production. The interest from South Africa and Nigeria indicates a broader trend of African nations exploring mineral wealth as a means to drive economic growth and support the green energy transition. However, the environmental impacts of mining remain a concern that needs addressing.

Original Source: africa.businessinsider.com

The post Africa’s Growing Role in Lithium Mining Amidst Global Demand first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigerian government is launching a new television drama series called “Hidden Riches” on January 25, aimed at enhancing awareness about the mining sector. Announced by Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, the show seeks to underline the industry’s significance in Nigeria’s economic diversification. Produced by Take 7 Media and set to air weekly on Saturdays at 8:05 pm on NTA, the series will feature notable actors and explore themes of politics, ambition, and the country’s mineral resources. Dr. Alake stated that this initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasising the potential of solid minerals in fostering sustainable economic growth.

The unveiling of “Hidden Riches” is a strategic move by the Nigerian government to encourage investment and engagement in the mining sector, which holds significant promise for economic diversification. As part of broader economic reforms, this television series aims to educate the public about the opportunities within solid minerals, showcasing its potential to transform Nigeria’s economy and reduce dependence on oil revenues. The series intends to leverage popular media to impact public perception and policy.

The introduction of “Hidden Riches” represents a proactive approach by the Nigerian government to elevate the profile of the mining sector. By combining entertainment with educational elements, the series seeks to inform viewers about the opportunities within this vital industry. Hopefully, it will foster greater awareness and interest in Nigeria’s solid minerals, contributing to the country’s overall economic progress.

Original Source: newscentral.africa

The post Nigerian Government Premieres TV Series to Boost Mining Sector Awareness first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria has lifted its five-year mining ban in Zamfara State, a decision prompted by improved security conditions. Initially imposed in 2019 due to significant bandit attacks, the ban had left the state’s rich deposits of gold, lithium, and copper underutilised. Mining Minister Dele Alake credited enhanced security efforts for this turnaround and emphasised the region’s vast natural resources that could greatly boost national revenue. In a bid to diversify its economy, which heavily relies on oil, Nigeria aims to amplify the mining sector’s contribution, currently less than 1% of GDP, through reforms designed to attract investors.

The mining ban in Zamfara State, which lasted five years, was a response to increasing violence and instability linked to banditry. The region is known for its mineral wealth, including significant reserves of gold, lithium, and copper. Nigeria’s intended shift towards diversifying its economy from a predominant oil dependency underlines a national strategy to enhance other sectors, including mining. This lifting of the ban and reforms represent a critical step in revitalising the industry and attracting foreign investment.

In conclusion, lifting the mining ban in Zamfara State marks a significant development in Nigeria’s efforts to exploit its rich mineral resources and reduce its reliance on oil. With enhanced security and strategic reforms to attract investment, the country is positioned to enhance the role of the mining sector in its economy, aiming for greater contributions to GDP and national revenue.

Original Source: www.africa.com

The post Nigeria Ends Five-Year Mining Ban in Zamfara Amid Security Improvements first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria’s mining activities in Zamfara state have resumed after a five-year ban due to improved security conditions. The ban was initially implemented in 2019 because of rampant bandit attacks, which severely affected legitimate mining operations. Mining Minister Dele Alake noted that security forces have made significant progress in reducing crime, paving the way for legal mining operations to start again. Zamfara is rich in minerals like gold, lithium, and copper, and the government aims to enhance the mining sector’s contribution to the economy, which currently stands at less than 1% of the GDP.

To attract investors, the Nigerian government has enacted reforms including the return of unused mining licences, allowing investors majority stakes in new mining companies, and strict regulations against illegal mining. Additionally, it has signed agreements for capacity-building support with countries including France, Germany, and Australia, seeking to upgrade its mining industry’s skills and efficiency. The Nigerian government is keen on diversifying its economy away from an oil dependency, leveraging its wealth of natural resources.

Zamfara state has significant deposits of valuable minerals such as gold, lithium, and copper. In 2019, the Nigerian government suspended mining operations due to escalating violence and insecurities caused by bandit attacks in the region. The recent lifting of this ban suggests that security forces have managed to achieve a level of stability that allows for the resumption of safe mining activities, indicating a shift towards enhancing the economic contributions of the mining sector in Nigeria, amidst ongoing efforts to diversify the economy.

The lifting of the mining ban in Zamfara signifies a positive development for Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts. With security improving, the government is focusing on strengthening the mining sector’s contribution to GDP, which has historically been negligible. Through various reforms and international collaborations, Nigeria is positioning itself to attract investment and enhance its mining capabilities, moving away from an over-reliance on oil.

Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za

The post Nigeria Resumes Mining in Zamfara State After Security Improvements first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria is actively seeking to attract Western miners as part of its strategy to diversify its economy and reduce its heavy dependence on oil and gas, which currently accounts for over 80% of government revenue. This move comes amidst a backdrop of concerns over Nigeria’s long-term sustainability and economic vulnerability linked to fluctuating oil prices. By developing its mining sector, Nigeria hopes to create new revenue streams and employment opportunities while fostering sustainable economic growth. The government is working to improve the regulatory framework and attract foreign investment, aiming to reshape its economic landscape.

Nigeria, primarily known for its vast oil and gas reserves, is looking to broaden its economic base. The reliance on fossil fuel revenues has exposed the economy to global oil price volatility, prompting the government to explore alternatives such as mining. This shift towards mining aligns with global trends, where many nations are recognising the potential of mineral resources in driving economic development and diversification. Western miners, with their expertise and technology, are seen as crucial partners in this endeavour.

Nigeria’s initiative to engage Western miners represents a significant step towards economic diversification. By leveraging its mineral resources, the country aims to decrease its dependency on oil revenues, create jobs, and ensure greater economic stability. However, the success of this strategy will depend on the effectiveness of regulatory reforms and the ability to attract substantial investments from the global mining industry.

Original Source: www.mining-journal.com

The post Nigeria’s Economic Diversification: Courting Western Miners first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

In northern Nigeria, impoverished children are being coerced into dangerous work within the unregulated lithium mining sector. Reports highlight that in locations such as Pasali village, children as young as five are involved in sorting and handling large amounts of lithium ore daily. The lack of educational opportunities due to poverty forces these children to work under hazardous conditions, often using primitive tools that leave them vulnerable to injury. Despite the clear involvement of child labour in these mining operations, local traders and mine owners attribute this issue to economic hardship, as government regulation remains largely ineffective. This shadowy trade has been exacerbated by the increased global demand for lithium, a critical component for electronics and electric vehicles. Critics note the troubling role of international businesses, particularly from China, in sustaining exploitative practices and contributing to environmental degradation. These challenges are compounded by ongoing socio-economic instability and insecurity in the region, linked to illegal mining activities.

Nigerian poverty has led to a dramatic increase in child labour within the lithium mining sector, with many children engaging in hazardous work due to a lack of educational opportunities. The unregulated mining industry operates in a context of minimal governmental oversight, compounded by rising global demand for lithium products. This has fostered an environment where illegal mining thrives, driving local children into unsafe labour conditions. The involvement of international corporations continues to perpetuate these exploitative practices, making reform difficult amid broader socio-economic issues.

The situation of child labour in Nigeria’s lithium mining sector highlights critical socio-economic challenges. Poverty continues to force young children into dangerous work, further entrenching the cycle of deprivation and lack of education. The lack of effective regulation facilitates these practices, while increasing global lithium demand and international business involvement complicate efforts for improvement. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts at local and global levels to protect vulnerable children and promote ethical mining practices.

Original Source: shiawaves.com

The post Child Labour Crisis: Nigeria’s Vulnerable Children in Lithium Mining first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The demand for lithium, vital for electric vehicle batteries and energy storage, is driving mining operations in Nigeria, particularly in Nasarawa. Unfortunately, this surge in mining activities has resulted in the exploitation of children, many of whom are impoverished and seek employment in unregulated, small-scale mines to help their families. These children face hazardous working conditions that further perpetuate the cycle of poverty and exploitation in their communities.

Lithium has become increasingly crucial due to the global shift towards sustainable energy and electric vehicles. This growing demand has opened new mining ventures in Nigeria, attracting workers, including vulnerable children. The rise of illegal mining operations raises serious ethical concerns as these children, in desperate need of income, are thrust into dangerous work environments without proper oversight or protection.

The emerging lithium mining industry in Nigeria highlights significant human rights issues, particularly the exploitation of child labour. As the world seeks sustainable energy solutions, it is imperative to address the conditions under which these resources are extracted to protect vulnerable populations, particularly children who are forced into dangerous, illegal work environments. Sustainable practices and regulations are essential to safeguard their futures.

Original Source: www.rockymounttelegram.com

The post Child Labour Exploitation Amid Nigeria’s Lithium Mining Boom first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The House of Representatives in Nigeria has called on the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to enhance lithium production as a means to boost revenue. This decision follows a motion by Rep. Victor Obuzor, highlighting the sector’s underdevelopment despite the country’s rich mineral resources.

Obuzor noted that mining’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP has plummeted from about five percent in the 1950s to less than 0.8 percent today, largely due to the rise of oil and gas. He advocated for increasing focus on lithium, critical for energy-dense batteries essential in renewable energy technologies.

Although Nigeria has undetermined lithium reserves, minerals have been found in states like Nasarawa and Kogi. Given rising global demand, with lithium prices soaring to over $46,000 by 2023, there are concerns about insufficient funding for mining initiatives. The Solid Minerals Development Fund has reportedly failed to invest significantly in lithium exploration.

To address this, the legislature proposed establishing the Nigerian Lithium Production Agency, responsible for creating a comprehensive lithium industry, developing infrastructure, and implementing a regulatory framework that would bolster investments in the entire lithium value chain. The House recommended increasing funding for the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency to facilitate proper mineral mapping and surveys.

Lithium is a vital mineral for rechargeable batteries, increasingly important in the shift towards clean energy. Despite Nigeria’s potential in lithium mining, the sector has been neglected over the years in favour of oil. The current move by the House of Representatives highlights a significant shift in policy to leverage natural resources for economic stability.

In summary, the Nigerian House of Representatives is pushing for enhanced lithium production to revive the mining sector, which has seen a sharp decline. With significant global demand for lithium, strategic investments and the establishment of a dedicated agency are seen as crucial steps for Nigeria to harness its mineral wealth effectively.

Original Source: dmarketforces.com

The post Nigerian Reps Advocate for Enhanced Lithium Production Amid Global Demand first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The House of Representatives has urged the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to seek additional funding for the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) to improve mineral mapping and assess Nigeria’s lithium reserves accurately. This initiative aims to stimulate revenue from lithium, which plays a crucial role in clean energy technologies. The call followed a motion by Rep. Victor Obuzor, highlighting the potential of Nigeria’s mineral wealth, particularly in lithium, which is vital for rechargeable batteries and the global energy transition.

The motion proposes establishing a Nigerian Lithium Production Agency aligned with the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act 2007 to foster a comprehensive lithium industry and regulatory framework. Mr. Obuzor emphasised lithium’s increasing market value, noting a significant jump from $5,180 per tonne in 2010 to $46,000 in 2023. Despite promising lithium discoveries in several states, the country suffers from a lack of comprehensive data on reserves and inadequate funding for mining projects.

Obuzor expressed concern over missed opportunities in the lithium sector, attributing this to underinvestment and inadequate funding structures, such as the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF), which has not effectively catalysed investments in lithium mining. He highlighted the need for urgent action to capitalise on the burgeoning lithium market, which is poised for significant growth in the coming years, as global demand could increase dramatically by 2040, driven by the clean energy push.

Nigeria has abundant mineral resources, yet its mining sector has declined significantly since the mid-20th century, primarily due to the oil and gas boom, which diverted focus from mining. Currently, the mining sector contributes less than 0.8% to Nigeria’s GDP compared to the continental average of nearly 5%. The urgent need for enhanced funding and strategic development in the lithium industry arises amid a growing global demand for lithium, particularly for clean energy applications such as battery production.

To revitalise Nigeria’s mining sector and leverage its lithium resources, increased funding for the NGSA and the establishment of a dedicated lithium agency are essential. With lithium’s soaring price and global demand set to rise, Nigeria has the opportunity to harness its mineral wealth, provided that necessary investments and frameworks are put into place. The call for action from the House of Representatives reflects a critical need for change in the country’s approach to mining and resource management.

Original Source: nairametrics.com

The post Reps Urge Boost for Nigeria’s Lithium Industry to Drive Revenue Growth first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Development Minister, Dele Alake, has urged global investors to utilise the country’s new digital geo-data platforms for accessing information on its abundant mineral resources. Speaking at the Mines & Money Conference in the UK, he highlighted three key platforms: the Nigerian Mineral Decision Support System (NMRDSS), the Electronic Mining Cadastral (EMC+), and the National Geo-Data Centre. These platforms aim to enhance investment opportunities by providing vital geological insights and improving transparency in mineral title applications.

Alake explained that the NMRDSS offers users an analytical view of mineral occurrences and related data, which helps in making informed mining decisions. Furthermore, EMC+ optimises administrative processes for mining titles, ensuring efficiency for remote applications. He is committed to continued funding for geological research to improve these digital resources, noting that they support Nigeria’s goal of becoming a major supplier of critical minerals like lithium and rare earth elements.

The minister emphasised that developing accurate geoscientific data is crucial for transitioning to a sustainable green economy, encouraging major mining companies to partner with Nigeria in harnessing its mineral wealth. He concluded by expressing optimism for potential partnerships, stating, “The future of Nigeria’s solid minerals is brimming with promise… Our doors are open to partnerships, and we invite you to join us on this transformative journey.”

The article discusses Nigeria’s efforts to attract foreign investment in its mining sector through enhanced access to digital geo-data platforms. Solid Minerals Development Minister Dele Alake announced these initiatives during the Mines & Money Conference, aiming to showcase Nigeria’s mineral wealth and promote transparency in mining operations. By leveraging digital tools, the government seeks to position Nigeria as a significant player in the global minerals market, particularly for critical materials needed for sustainable technologies.

In conclusion, Nigeria is actively seeking global investment in its mining sector by promoting new geo-data platforms that facilitate access to comprehensive mineral information. The government’s commitment to enhancing geological research and developing efficient digital tools is aimed at attracting foreign mining companies. The minister’s call for partnerships underscores the potential for significant growth in Nigeria’s solid minerals industry and its role in the green economy.

Original Source: punchng.com

The post Nigeria Invites Global Investment in Mining through Digital Geo-Data Platforms first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.