Nigeria to explore deep seabed for solid mineral mining

The Federal government of Nigeria has announced plans to to explore deep seabed mining as part of its efforts to harness the blue economy’s potential and diversify its economy.

This initiative was revealed by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, during a stakeholders’ sensitization workshop on deep seabed activities in Abuja. Represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Micheal Oloruntola, Oyetola emphasized that Nigeria, as an oil-producing nation with significant coastal and inland waterways, must not fall behind in this emerging frontier.

Deep seabed mining

Deep seabed mining involves tapping into resources located on or beneath the ocean floor, which include valuable minerals such as copper, nickel, cobalt, and gold. These metals are essential for modern technology and the development of green energy solutions. Nigeria’s transition from a fossil fuel-based economy to one that utilizes marine resources offers potential for renewable energy generation from wave and tide energy, which could meet national energy needs and stimulate economic growth.

Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of NIMASA, further highlighted that deep-sea mining presents a critical opportunity for Nigeria to diversify its economy beyond offshore oil and gas. The exploration of the deep seabed, which ranges from depths of 200 to 11,000 meters, could contribute to the nation’s resource security, job creation, and technological advancement. However, both speakers stressed the importance of ensuring that environmental and social impacts are addressed, with measures to protect marine ecosystems as deep-seabed activities advance.

The workshop’s goal was to raise awareness among key stakeholders about the significance of these activities while aligning with global standards for sustainability and environmental protection.