Stakeholders want policy framework to regulate mining operations

Emmanuel Joe, Uyo

Stakeholders have asked the Federal Government to initiate policies and regulations for mining as demand for mineral resources will increase in 2040.

Speaking during the National Extractive Dialogues 2025 (NED) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital on the theme “Transitions, Divestments And Critical Minerals: Charting A Just Future For Nigeria’s Extractive Sector,” the stakeholders maintained that harnessing Nigeria’s critical minerals is necessary for the global clean energy transition.

The stakeholders’ engagement, which was organised by Non-Governmental Organisation – Space for Change in collaboration with Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) and Ford Foundation in the United States, emphasised the need for a coordinated roadmap to govern the extraction of mineral resources and their utilisation.

The House of Representatives Committee Chairman on Solid Minerals, Mr Gaza Gbefwi, in his remarks, stated that, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA) report, the demand for critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite, and rare earth elements is projected to increase by 2040.

“The global transition to clean energy has intensified the race for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite, and rare earth elements.

“These minerals are essential inputs in electric vehicles (EVs), solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage. By 2040, demand for these minerals is projected to increase,” he said.

He added that countries like Australia, Chile, Namibia, and DR Congo are already positioning themselves to benefit from this trend.

The chairman noted that while Nigeria has confirmed reserves of lithium, niobium, and tin, the country lacks a National Critical Minerals Policy, local refining capacity, and sufficient geological data.

Gbefwi promised to provide legislative leadership, monitor the implementation of mining reforms, and facilitate public hearings to ensure inclusive policymaking.

In another goodwill message, Executive Secretary/CEO of NEITI, Dr. Orji Orji, said the agency has launched a Data Centre to provide real-time, automated, and centralised extractive sector data, which will support transparency and accountability.

He emphasised the need for a coordinated approach to address the challenges and opportunities arising from the global shift to clean energy, divestments, and the growing demand for critical minerals.

The Director General of NOSDRA, Chukwuemeka Woke, highlighted a critical moment Nigeria’s extractive sector is facing as the world shifts towards low-carbon energy systems.

He said over 26 divestment deals involving major International Oil Companies (IOCs) have been initiated or concluded since 2020, transferring oil blocks and infrastructure valued at over $10 billion.

Woke called for clear divestment protocols, environmental audits, and enforceable post-exit obligations.

While welcoming participants, the Director of S4C,  Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri, said that as the world is racing for energy transition, Nigeria must make informed choices on regulation, environmental accountability, and community protection to avoid repeating past mistakes.