In a major boost to Nigeria’s mining sector, the Federal Government has commissioned the country’s first Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS) Laboratory at the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) Headquarters in Abuja.
The state-of-the-art facility is set to revolutionize mineral exploration, environmental monitoring, forensic investigations, and clinical research by providing high-precision geoscience data.
Commissioning the laboratory on Tuesday in Abuja, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe, described the development as a milestone in the government’s efforts to attract investors, enhance exploration activities, and strengthen Nigeria’s mining sector.
“The mining sector roadmap has identified critical gaps that must be filled to achieve the desired growth. One of these is the need for reliable geoscience data to enable investors to develop projects and support small-scale miners in growing into large-scale entrepreneurs,” Dr. Alake stated.
Game-Changer for Nigeria’s Mineral Sector
The ICP-MS Laboratory is a high-tech analytical facility capable of detecting trace elements at extremely low concentrations, making it essential for accurate mineral exploration and environmental assessments.
Dr. Alake noted that the facility aligns with the Federal Government’s economic diversification agenda, as it will significantly reduce capital flight by providing local access to world-class mineral analysis—eliminating the need to send samples abroad.
> “This facility will not only enhance investor confidence but also create value addition along Nigeria’s mineral value chain. It will serve stakeholders in material science, defense, environmental studies, and food analysis,” he added.
The new laboratory complements other government initiatives, including the electronic Mineral Resources Decision Support System (NMRDSS), which enables real-time analysis of mineral deposits and surrounding infrastructure.
Economic and Environmental Impact
The ICP-MS Laboratory is expected to save Nigeria billions of naira annually and create employment opportunities by encouraging investment in mineral exploration and research.
Dr. Alake also reiterated the government’s commitment to formalizing artisanal miners into cooperatives and equipping them with modern mining techniques, ensuring responsible mining practices while boosting job creation and revenue generation.
> “We are committed to formalizing artisanal miners into cooperatives and equipping them with modern mining techniques. This will ensure responsible mining practices while generating more jobs and boosting revenue for the nation,” he said.
The Minister urged researchers, mining firms, and government agencies to maximize the benefits of the facility by utilizing its services. Plans are also in place to secure ISO accreditation, further enhancing the credibility and acceptance of the laboratory’s results on the international stage.
NGSA DG: Nigeria Poised for Global Recognition
Speaking at the event, the Director-General of NGSA, Professor Olusegun O. Ige, emphasized the significance of the new laboratory in advancing geoscience research and supporting the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
> “The commissioning of this facility represents a significant leap in our efforts to generate high-quality geoscience data that will drive investment and economic growth. It will ensure that Nigeria has a world-class mineral analysis center, reducing dependence on foreign laboratories,” he said.
Professor Ige highlighted that the Triple Quadrupole ICP-MS acquired for NGSA can detect elements in concentrations as low as parts per billion (ppb), making it an invaluable tool for mineral analysis, resource assessment, and environmental protection.
> “With this facility, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s mining sector. We are also working towards obtaining ISO certification for all NGSA laboratories, ensuring our data meets global standards,” he added.
Boosting Investor Confidence and Sustainable Mining
The commissioning of the ICP-MS Laboratory marks another step in the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity, boosting investor confidence, and promoting sustainable mining practices.
Stakeholders at the event applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its renewed focus on economic diversification through solid minerals development.
With the new laboratory now fully operational, Nigeria is strategically positioned to maximize its vast mineral resources, drive industrializat
ion, and attract global investors into the mining sector.