Henry Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, revealed Nigeria’s positive outlook as a supplier to the global mineral market at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh. He said Nigeria is rich in lithium and other elements and is committed to positioning itself as a key supplier to the global mineral market.

Alake stressed Nigeria’s important role in the forum and considered its participation in the forum “a very positive development”. He mentioned that Nigeria has globally sought-after minerals, especially lithium, which is in huge demand, and Nigeria has large and high-quality lithium resources.

The forum represents a joint effort of mineral-rich countries to enhance exploration, processing, mining, as well as export and distribution. Alake stressed that Nigeria’s ultimate goal is to create local value, increase revenue, and occupy a prominent position in international economic affairs.

At the forum, Alake had a fruitful discussion with the Saudi minister, pointing out the fit between Saudi Arabia’s large demand for iron ore and Nigeria’s abundant iron ore resources. The two sides have established a technical committee to work out the details of the cooperation, which Alake sees as a very positive gain.

Alake also stressed Nigeria's determination to diversify its economy and get rid of its dependence on oil, and pointed out the country's key role in the global energy transition. He proudly stated that Nigeria has a large amount of key metals and elements, is the "granary" of the supply chain, and is ready to be part of this supply chain.

Finally, Alake emphasized the importance of the Future Minerals Forum as a platform for cooperation among countries, believing that the forum provides an opportunity to deepen trade relations between regional member countries, help Nigeria and other African countries increase income, and indirectly or directly improve their socio-economic welfare. He looks forward to the forum continuing to be a catalyst for promoting partnerships, exploring opportunities and promoting the diversification of the global mineral supply chain.Editor/Zhao E