- Critical minerals are essential to Nigeria’s green energy future and emissions reduction.
- Investment in mining, refining, and EV production can boost growth and sustainability.
Nigeria’s critical minerals are key to the energy transition. They are central to ensuring the country meets climate goals while boosting its global standing. At the same time, they create opportunities for industrial growth and wider economic diversification.
Since fossil fuels are declining and Electric Vehicles (EVs) are expanding, Nigeria must rethink its strategy. Consequently, the Africa Policy Research Institute (APRI) emphasises the urgent need for a national critical minerals plan. This plan should include reforms in mining and land laws. It should also encourage more funding for exploration, geological mapping, and refining.
The report stresses that Nigeria’s shift to a low-carbon economy depends on tackling high-emission sectors, including energy, transportation, agriculture, and manufacturing. Thus, critical minerals remain central to decarbonisation efforts.
Oil and gas still dominate the energy sector. However, renewable energy represents the clear future. For instance, solar panels rely on silicon, wind turbines require rare earths, and copper drives power systems. Therefore, by developing its mineral resources, Nigeria can reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and cut carbon emissions.
Transportation also generates high greenhouse gas emissions, and as petrol and diesel vehicles dominate, the challenge remains significant. Nevertheless, adopting EVs offers a clear solution. Their batteries depend on lithium, cobalt, and nickel. If Nigeria invests in these minerals, it can grow its EV market while reducing transport emissions.
Meanwhile, the manufacturing and industrial sectors can decarbonise through renewable energy and efficient technologies. In particular, the report highlights green hydrogen, which depends on platinum and renewable power, as vital for the steel and cement industries.
Agriculture equally presents opportunities. Precision farming technologies rely on rare earths, improving fertiliser and water use and lowering emissions. Additionally, greener fertilisers developed with critical minerals can cut emissions further. Renewable technologies powered by minerals could also replace diesel in agricultural processes.
Ultimately, Nigeria’s critical minerals are key to the energy transition. Yet, economic growth must balance with environmental and social safeguards. Hence, sustainable extraction, meaningful community engagement, and more substantial investment in value-added industries will determine lasting success.