Fed lawmaker advocates strategy to harness critical minerals for global clean energy transition
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals, Hon. Gaza Gbefwi has called for urgent policy action to harness Nigeria’s critical minerals, essential for the global clean energy transition.
Speaking at the National Extractives Dialogue (NED) 2025 in Uyo on Wednesday, the Chairman emphasised the need for a coordinated roadmap to govern the extraction and utilisation of these minerals.
Our correspondent reports that the event was organised by Spaces for Change (S4C) in collaboration with The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) and the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA).
Gbefwi said that given International Energy Agency (IEA) report, the demand for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite, and rare earth elements is projected to quadruple by 2040.
“The global transition to clean energy has intensified the race for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite, and rare earth elements.
“These minerals are essential inputs in electric vehicles (EVs), solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage. By 2040, demand for these minerals is projected to quadruple.”
According to him, countries like Australia, Chile, Namibia, and DR Congo are already positioning themselves to benefit from this trend.
The Chairman noted that while Nigeria has confirmed reserves of lithium, niobium, and tin, the country lacks a National Critical Minerals Policy, local refining capacity, and sufficient geological data.
The House Committee Chairman pledged to provide legislative leadership, monitor implementation of mining reforms, and facilitate public hearings to ensure inclusive policymaking.
The Executive Secretary/CEO of NEITI, Dr. Orji Orji said the agency has launched a Data Center to provide real-time, automated, and centralised extractive sector data, which will support transparency and accountability.
He emphasised the need for a coordinated approach to address the challenges and opportunities arising from the global shift to clean energy, divestments, and the growing demand for critical minerals.
In his remarks, the Director General of NOSDRA, Chukwuemeka Woke, highlighted the critical moment Nigeria’s extractive sector is facing as the world shifts towards low-carbon energy systems.
He said over 26 divestment deals involving major International Oil Companies (IOCs) have been initiated or concluded since 2020, transferring oil blocks and infrastructure valued at over $10 billion.
Woke called for clear divestment protocols, environmental audits, and enforceable post-exit obligations.
In her welcome address, the Director of S4C, MS Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri said as the world is racing for energy transition, Nigeria must make informed choices on regulation, environmental accountability, and community protection to avoid repeating past mistakes.
