【Ferro-alloys.com】: Nigeria's bauxite mining sector is on the brink of a major transformation, setting itself up as a key player in the growth of the country's aluminium industry in 2025 and beyond. Bauxite, being the vital raw material for aluminium production, is crucial for a wide range of industrial uses, including aerospace, transportation, packaging and infrastructure development.

In recent years, Nigeria stepped up as a key player in the global critical minerals supply chain, for its rich reserves, growing industrial sector and commitment to sustainable extraction practices. While the country has long relied on oil, it's now making a strong push towards economic diversification by tapping into its wealth of mineral resources found in states like Benue, Cross River, Kogi and Edo. This strategic shift aligns perfectly with national policies designed to bolster local industries, create jobs and enhance value within the domestic economy.

Why choose bauxite?

With bauxite's diverse applications in transportation, aerospace, construction, consumer goods and packaging, it is becoming essential for industrial growth and the development of supply chains. For national economies, this sector aids in creating new industries and job opportunities but also strengthens global supply resilience as demand continues to rise.

In Nigeria, the potential goes beyond just mining raw bauxite, as there are chances to set up factories and suppliers that can process and add value. This could really speed up the growth of downstream aluminium industries and help position the country as a significant player by 2025.

Bauxite deposits & geological exploration

Nigeria boasts impressive bauxite reserves, estimated between 1.2 and 2 billion tonnes, making it one of the largest in Africa. The key deposits are primarily found in Benue, Cross River, Kogi and Edo, the states located in the southeastern and central parts of the country. These areas are rich in lateritic profiles that have a high alumina content and are easy to extract. Such geological formations provide a dependable source of raw materials, perfect for both international exports and local processing, which in turn bolsters Nigeria's position in fulfilling the increasing global and regional demand for aluminium.

Benue State is home to some impressive bauxite reserves, especially in Owakande, which is famous for its top-notch ore.
Cross River State has significant deposits in Akamkpa and Ikom Local Government Area.
Kogi State, strategically located in the heart of Nigeria, is crucial to the country's aluminium industry, boasting key sites like Ajaokuta and Dekina.
Edo State adds to the national landscape with its reserves scattered throughout the region, bolstering both its industrial capabilities and Nigeria's overall resource wealth.

Key bauxite mining sites & factories in Nigeria

Nigeria's bauxite sector is experiencing a fresh wave of activity, with significant deposits scattered across various states, each offering industrial benefits. In Benue State, the Owakande site boasts 300 million tonnes of reserves, managed by Benue Mining Corp. This operation produces around 2.5 million tonnes each year, providing over 2,000 jobs and enhancing the local aluminium supply through initiatives focused on water recycling and land reclamation.

• [Editor:Alakay]