Nigeria has unveiled a multi-pillar mining sector expansion and beneficiation strategy aimed at shifting the country from exporting raw minerals to producing value-added products.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Yusuf Yabo, said the strategy was designed to unlock Nigeria’s mineral wealth while driving industrialization and regional integration.
According to him, the first pillar focuses on beneficiation and value addition, with Nigeria planning to establish processing plants for rare earth minerals and promote regional infrastructure integration. The second pillar emphasizes energy infrastructure development to ensure affordable and reliable power for mining operations.
The third pillar highlights technology transfer and skills development, with a focus on youth empowerment. The fourth pillar centers on policy and investment alignment across Africa, with Nigeria reforming regulations, introducing innovative de-risking tools and strengthening partnerships to harmonize infrastructure and policy frameworks.
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He explained: “We are moving from raw material suppliers to producers of value-added products. For too long, we have exported raw minerals for processing elsewhere, and the benefits have not reached our people. Today we are rich in resources yet poor in outcomes.
“No industrialization can thrive without secure power. The AfCFTA provides a chance to connect markets and industries through strong infrastructure linkages.
“Youth training must be a cornerstone of industry growth. Young people are our greatest assets, not a burden. With the right skills, they will build responsible and sustainable mining.
“Our strategy is not just about mining for mining’s sake; it is about justice, technology, and building regional value chains,” Yabo added.
He also hinted that Nigeria was also reworking inactive and dormant mining licenses, advancing a national critical minerals strategy and providing incentives for local beneficiation projects.
