In 2024, Nigeria was the world's second-ranked producer of tantalum, accounting for an estimated 16% of global production, and fourth-ranked producer of beryllium, accounting for an estimated 9.2% of global production. Other mineral commodities produced in the country included industrial minerals, gold, iron ore, lead, manganese, niobium, rare earths, tin, tungsten, zinc, and zirconium mineral concentrates. In 2024, the mining and quarrying sector contributed 6.9% to Nigeria’s gross domestic product, driven almost entirely by crude petroleum and natural gas, which together accounted for 80.6% of the sector in the last quarter of the year (the latest detailed information available). Nigeria exported cement to Cameroon and tin ores and concentrates to China, whereas mineral-related exports to the United States included fertilizers, gemstones, and nonferrous metals. Beryllium and tantalum were exported to China, however the most recent data regarding tantalum export to China is from 2023.
The legislative framework for the mineral sector in Nigeria is provided by Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007. The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development oversees the formulation of sector policies; the regulation and revenue generation of the solid minerals industry; and the identification, administration, and oversight of all stages of mineral exploration, mining, and mineral sales through the issuance of permits, licenses, leases, and the collection of associated fees and royalties. Most mineral production in Nigeria is carried out by private companies; critical minerals in the country are produced through both artisanal and small scale mining activities as well as by private companies.
