The European Union has expressed strong interest in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector as part of efforts to boost bilateral trade and investment.
European Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, revealed this during a meeting with Solid Minerals Development Minister Dr. Dele Alake in Abuja. Mignot praised Nigeria’s mining sector reforms and said the EU seeks deeper collaboration in the industry.
Key Discussion Points:
Nigeria’s vast deposits of high-grade lithium (critical for solar panels and electric vehicles)
Investment incentives including tax waivers, profit repatriation, and streamlined licensing
New mineral tracking systems to combat illegal mining and smuggling, Requirement for local value addition as condition for mining licenses.
Minister Alake emphasised Nigeria’s readiness to partner with EU investors, stating: “With our shared history, we must now translate discussions into concrete projects.”
He highlighted ongoing reforms like satellite monitoring and pre-shipment inspections to ensure mineral traceability.
Ambassador Mignot pledged to engage EU member states and companies, underscoring Europe’s commitment to sustainable mining partnerships.
The talks signal growing international interest in Nigeria’s minerals as the global shift to green energy accelerates.
