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.

Abdullahi Sule, the governor of Nasarawa State, has highlighted the need for Nigeria to abandon the community consent form as the sole means for granting mining licences. Speaking at the NMGS conference, he pointed out that this restriction hampers states from obtaining proper revenue from the mining sector, which he believes is Nigeria’s true source of wealth, surpassing oil.

To combat the challenges in obtaining mining licences, the governor introduced an executive order mandating that all companies mining in commercial quantities must process their minerals within the state. Prior to this law, despite 416 mining licences existing, Nasarawa State received no revenue. Following implementation, the state saw the establishment of numerous processing plants, boosting local revenue.

Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, emphasised the government’s commitment to modernising the sector through geospatial data and remote sensing technologies. These initiatives are designed to improve mineral exploration and investment decision-making while minimising uncertainties.

Alake’s representative, Dr. Mary Ogbe, also reaffirmed the federal government’s dedication to fostering an environment conducive to innovative growth in mining and related sectors. This includes the creation of mineral processing hubs aimed at enhancing value addition and diminishing dependence on raw mineral exports.

Prof. Akinade Shadrach Olatunji, President of NMGS, stated that integrating agriculture with advanced geoscience and mining solutions would significantly transform Nigeria’s economy. He noted that industrialised nations have long recognised this relationship, supporting well-funded geoscience and mining agencies with top-tier talent.

In summary, Governor Abdullahi Sule advocates for reforming Nigeria’s mining licence system to enhance revenue. He has implemented measures in Nasarawa State to facilitate local mineral processing. The federal government is also focused on leveraging technology and creating hubs for mineral processing to boost value addition, aiming to transform the mining sector into a key economic driver alongside agriculture.

Original Source: dailytrust.com

The post Governor Sule Advocates for Mining Licence Reform in Nigeria first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria, abundant in over 44 minerals across 500 locations, is evolving into a major player in Africa’s mining sector. The government aims to elevate the mining sector’s GDP contribution to 10% by 2026 by fully exploiting its vast mineral resources. Upcoming events like Africa Mining Week in Cape Town will spotlight investment opportunities in Nigeria.

Bitumen: Nigeria possesses 42.47 billion tons of probable bitumen reserves, ranking sixth globally. Major deposits are located in Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Rivers, Bayelsa, and Edo States. A $1 billion investment by Owena Bitumen Exploration Nigeria Limited aims to develop these reserves in Ondo State.

Limestone: With approximately 10.6 billion tons, Nigeria has one of Africa’s largest limestone reserves, spread across 14 states. This resource is key for job creation and economic diversification, particularly in cement production through companies like Dangote Cement.

Coal: Nigeria’s coal reserves are significant, estimated at 2.75 billion tons, mainly found in Gombe, Kogi, Nasarawa, and Enugu States. The Zuma Coal Mining Project, operated by Zuma Energy Nigeria Limited, has a production target of two million metric tons annually over 25 years.

Iron Ore: The Itakpe mine in Kogi State hosts around 3 billion tons of iron ore, a crucial resource for Nigeria’s industrialization. The iron ore is processed to 67% purity and supplies steel plants like Aladja and Ajaokuta.

Gold: Nigeria, with 21.37 metric tons of gold reserves, is the sixth-largest gold holder in Africa. Major deposits are spread across Zamfara, Kaduna, Bauchi, Niger, and Osun States, while initiatives, including a new gold refinery by Kian Smith, aim to enhance the gold value chain.

Nigeria’s mining sector offers significant opportunities for investment and economic growth, driven by its vast mineral reserves in bitumen, limestone, coal, iron ore, and gold. By attracting global investors and focusing on sustainable exploitation of these resources, Nigeria aims to diversify its economy and improve its mining contributions to GDP.

Original Source: energycapitalpower.com

The post Five Emerging Mineral Resources in Nigeria first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigerian federal government has reported that international investors are showing interest in the country’s lithium sector. Segun Tomori, special assistant to Minister Dele Alake, stated during a recent XSpace event that lithium’s significance lies in its use for electric vehicles, solar panels, and green technologies. As a result, many investors are drawn to it, outpacing interest in other minerals like gold, nickel, and cobalt.

Tomori noted that Nigeria has already inaugurated two lithium factories, with additional ones set to open soon, including a new facility in Abuja. He emphasised the growing international mining industry’s focus on lithium, vital for solar panel and electric vehicle production, essential for green energy initiatives. The government aims to create a favourable investment environment by streamlining investment processes and addressing security concerns.

The commitment to fully exploit Nigeria’s lithium potential is evident, especially in Nasarawa state, which is believed to hold significant reserves. Tomori commended the proactive approach of Nasarawa’s governor, Abdullahi Sule, in developing the mining sector. The governor has engaged in collaborations with private entities and has applied to operate as a limited liability company.

Additionally, Tomori revealed that Nasarawa has already commissioned two lithium factories, with more expected this year. However, he acknowledged that Nigeria’s mining sector still requires technical expertise from established mining nations. The minister is actively engaging with foreign parties to seek technical partnerships and capacity-building opportunities.

Despite existing challenges, there is confidence in Nigeria’s ability to leverage its lithium resources for economic growth.

Nigeria’s lithium sector is rapidly gaining international attention, resulting in the establishment of several factories. With strategic government initiatives, particularly in Nasarawa state, and collaborations with foreign countries, Nigeria aims to develop its mining capabilities and technical expertise. The commitment from both the government and local stakeholders is pivotal in capitalising on the country’s lithium potential, despite ongoing challenges.

Original Source: www.thecable.ng

The post Nigeria Attracts International Investors to Its Promising Lithium Sector 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.

Abdullahi Ibrahim Danjija, a 31-year-old miner in Nasarawa, Nigeria, earns N150,000 ($100) daily from artisanal lithium mining, double the monthly minimum wage. Many miners are attracted to this opportunity due to the increasing global demand for lithium, essential for electric batteries and mobile phones. Despite the allure, much of Nigeria’s mining is small-scale and often illegal, with minimal safety or environmental standards enforced.

At the Gidan Kwano site, some miners avoided media attention, as they operated without legal permits. Nearby, families were seen using explosives to expand their mining operations. Artisanal work thrives, with children and women participating eagerly, providing a means of livelihood as they dig and sell lithium-rich rocks, which costs them only their labour.

China remains the leading consumer of lithium and imports significant quantities while Nigeria aims to attract foreign investment as it promotes its lithium resources. Despite campaigns against illegal mining, the sector is booming. New regulations may require foreign firms to establish processing plants locally, a move that could deter investment from large players like Elon Musk.

Chinese companies have established local operations to refine lithium, even as concerns about inadequate exploration and site verification linger. The Geological Society of Nigeria highlights the need for better regulation and sustainable practices within the mining sector, pointing out that some Chinese miners operate unsafely.

However, artisanal mining can also lead to local conflicts over resource access. Analyst Charles Asiegbu explains that disputes can arise both between communities and with exploration firms. Additionally, armed groups exploit the weak governmental presence in certain regions to conduct illegal extractions while local miners like Danjija continue their hazardous work without respite, even in adverse weather conditions.

The rising global demand for lithium, crucial for electric batteries and mobile gadgets, has drawn interest from miners in Nigeria, particularly in Nasarawa. This interest has spurred artisanal mining, which, though potentially lucrative, often operates illegally without permits or adherence to safety regulations. The Nigerian government is keen to attract foreign investment in this resource sector, but challenges such as illegal mining and civil conflicts complicate efforts.

The burgeoning interest in Nigeria’s lithium reserves highlights both the potential for economic growth and the risks of unregulated artisanal mining. With China as a major player in lithium processing, Nigeria seeks to establish a regulated framework to ensure local benefit from its resources while addressing environmental and community challenges associated with mining operations.

Original Source: punchng.com

The post Foreign Investors Target Nigeria’s Lithium Wealth Amidst Rising Demand first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Dr Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, underscored Nasarawa state’s critical role in enhancing Nigeria’s mining sector during a meeting with Governor Abdullahi Sule and Minister of Defence Abubakar Badaru. He highlighted Nasarawa as a mining hub, especially for lithium, and emphasised the need for ongoing collaboration to exploit the state’s mineral wealth effectively.

Nasarawa state is known for its extensive mineral resources, particularly lithium, positioning it as a pivotal area for mining efforts in Nigeria. Recent reforms in the country’s mining sector have sparked increasing interest from global investors. However, challenges such as insecurity remain, prompting the need for enhanced cooperation among state and federal officials to support mining activities while addressing security concerns.

The emphasis on collaboration between governmental bodies is crucial for advancing mining activities in Nasarawa, particularly amidst ongoing security challenges. The commitment by officials to address these issues signifies a robust strategy towards unlocking the state’s minerals potential for national growth. Overall, sustained cooperation is imperative for the mining sector’s success in Nigeria.

Original Source: blueprint.ng

The post Nasarawa State: Key to Nigeria’s Mining Future, Says Minister Alake first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, highlighted the vital role of Nasarawa State in Nigeria’s mining sector during a meeting with Governor Abdullahi Sule and Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru. Alake noted that Nasarawa, rich in lithium and other minerals, is essential for national development and expressed appreciation for the cooperative relationship with the state government.

Alake indicated that recent reforms have attracted global attention to Nigeria’s mining industry. Governor Sule praised Alake for promoting President Bola Tinubu’s mining agenda but acknowledged ongoing security challenges. Sule emphasised the need for collaboration to address these issues to facilitate uninterrupted mining operations.

Governor Sule reported that lithium production is thriving in the state, with more factories under construction. He stressed the importance of partnering with the private sector to enhance the mining value chain.

Defence Minister Badaru reaffirmed the federal government’s determination to combat insecurity, which has hindered mining activities. He reported progress in tackling banditry and assured that security measures are being intensified nationwide to enable safe mining operations.

Nasarawa State is rich in mineral resources, notably lithium, making it central to Nigeria’s mining ambitions. The government aims to leverage these resources for economic growth, hence the focus on overcoming insecurity to allow for sustainable development. Collaboration between state and federal officials is critical for addressing challenges in the mining sector and ensuring a conducive environment for investment and exploration.

The dialogue among officials underscores the significance of Nasarawa State in Nigeria’s mining landscape, stressing the interplay between resource development and security. Effective collaboration is essential to overcoming obstacles and bolstering the mining sector, ensuring that the state remains a pivotal player in national mineral development.

Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com

The post Nasarawa’s Role in Advancing Nigeria’s Mining Sector first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

In Nigeria, increased lithium demand for electric vehicles has led to child exploitation in illegal mines. The Associated Press investigated this issue in Nasarawa state, revealing children work under unsafe conditions in the mines, earning minimal pay. Notably, a Chinese company was found purchasing lithium without questioning its source, highlighting a lack of oversight. The situation reflects a broader trend of child labour in global mining, particularly in impoverished regions with insufficient educational access and regulations.

Children, some as young as five, were observed working in dangerous conditions, using crude tools to extract lithium from the earth. They typically work long hours, earning a shared income of about $2.42 per day. Most of these children have stopped attending school, often due to financial constraints faced by their families. Miners reported that illegal operations thrive with buyers willing to ignore child labour violations.

Local merchants engage with Chinese companies, such as RSIN Nigeria Limited, to sell lithium at competitive prices, often without scrutiny on the origins of their product. Aliyu Ibrahim, a lithium merchant, noted his business success relies on unofficial networks, with officials turning a blind eye to exploitative practices. Despite acknowledging child labour in his mines, he rationalised it as a means of survival for orphans and impoverished children.

Activists and officials are calling for urgent reforms. Philip Jakpor, from the Renevlyn Development Initiative, noted that profit motives often outweigh human rights considerations, urging suppliers to adopt ethical practices in mining. The Nigerian government is implementing measures to combat child labour through education initiatives and stricter mining regulations. However, the effectiveness of these strategies remains to be seen as the demand for lithium continues to rise globally.

In summary, the report sheds light on the troubling intersection of child labour and the booming lithium market in Nigeria. Children are being exploited in unsafe conditions, working without educational opportunities. There’s an urgent need for accountability from corporations and improved regulations to protect these vulnerable children from ongoing exploitation and secure their rightful access to education and safety.

The rising demand for lithium, essential for electric vehicle batteries and energy storage, has opened new mining opportunities in Nigeria. This expansion, however, has resulted in increasingly prevalent child labour, particularly in illegal mining operations. With poverty driving families to send children to work in hazardous conditions, it has become critical to address the policies and enforcement mechanisms protecting these children. The involvement of international companies raises ethical questions about the sources of their materials and their responsibility towards human rights.

The AP report underscores the urgent issue of child labour within Nigeria’s lithium mining sector. It reveals unsafe working conditions and the complicity of local and international buyers in perpetuating these practices. Without stricter regulations and ethical commitments from corporations, the exploitation of vulnerable children will likely continue as demand for lithium grows, emphasising the need for immediate action to protect their rights and welfare.

Original Source: www.newsday.com

The post Child Labour in Nigeria’s Lithium Mines: An Alarming Report from AP first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.