Nigeria Secures $3bn Solid Minerals Investment Inflow as Mining Reforms Boost Investor Confidence

Nigeria’s solid minerals sector has recorded a major boost, attracting about $3bn in investment inflows within the last three years, according to the Federal Government. Officials described the development as one of the most significant milestones in the history of Nigeria’s mining industry, signaling renewed global confidence in the country’s resource potential.

The government said the investments cut across lithium, gold, and other strategic minerals, reflecting growing interest driven by reforms introduced under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The announcement was made ahead of the 5th African Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS 2026) scheduled to hold in Abuja between June 23 and 25.

Speaking at a press briefing, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake—represented by Martins Imonitie—explained that mining investments typically require long-term planning due to the complexity of exploration and development. He noted that it can take up to 15–20 years for a mine to reach full commercial production, making the $3bn inflow within three years a remarkable achievement.

According to him, the inflow demonstrates strong investor confidence in Nigeria’s reform direction and positions the country as an emerging destination for critical mineral investments. He added that the upcoming AFNIS summit would focus on transforming Africa from a raw material exporter into a hub for value addition, industrialisation, and sustainable economic growth through regional collaboration.

The summit is also expected to serve as a deal-making platform, with stakeholders targeting practical investment outcomes. Officials revealed that previous editions of AFNIS have already generated nearly $600m in transactions, reinforcing its role as a growing investment gateway for Africa’s mining and energy sector.

source: punch