Clean Energy: Nigeria Urged to Build Local Industries around Critical Minerals

Nigeria should focus on building industries that process lithium, copper and bauxite at home instead of exporting raw minerals, a new report has advised, saying the move could create jobs, support clean energy production and increase national income.

The report was presented on Monday in Abuja by the Council for Critical Minerals Development in the Global South to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake. It outlines practical steps to help Nigeria turn its mineral resources into products needed for renewable energy technologies such as batteries, solar panels and electric vehicles.

The report says Nigeria has mineral resources that are in high demand as countries expand the use of cleaner energy. It identifies lithium, copper and bauxite as three key minerals that can help support that transition if they are processed within the country.

It explains that exporting raw ore brings less economic value than refining minerals and using them in local manufacturing. The report says stronger processing industries could help Nigeria create more jobs, attract investment and build a stronger industrial base.

The presentation came only days after the Federal Government announced the discovery of a major mineral deposit in Kaduna State. The site contains platinum group metals, gold, nickel, copper, lithium and rare earth elements, strengthening hopes that the mining sector can play a bigger role in the economy.

Report links mining with clean energy

The study examines Nigeria's expected demand for minerals used in renewable energy equipment and compares it with current production and trade. It also points out weaknesses in the country's mineral value chain and suggests policy changes that can improve local production.

Demand for minerals such as lithium and copper has increased worldwide because they are important materials used in batteries, solar energy systems and electric vehicles. Many countries are seeking reliable supplies as they expand clean energy projects.

Alake described the report as a useful guide for developing green industries in Nigeria. He said it provides clear policy options that can help the country make better use of its mineral resources while supporting local manufacturing.

The minister said the government plans to develop a mineral-to-manufacturing roadmap with support from the Council. The partnership will also encourage investment from countries in the Global South and work with local businesses on projects linked to clean energy production.

The report comes as the Federal Government continues reforms in the mining sector. Official figures show mining revenue increased from about ₦6 billion to more than ₦70 billion by the end of 2025, showing stronger activity in the industry.

The Council for Critical Minerals Development in the Global South is supported by Sustainable Energy for All and a research centre at the University of California, Davis. The group says helping countries process their own mineral resources can strengthen economic development while supporting the global shift to cleaner energy.