Explore Nigeria’s copper ore production, trading, and export potential with Augustina Impex Limited – your trusted partner in quality mineral supply.
Introduction
Nigeria is rapidly emerging as a key player in Africa’s solid minerals sector, and copper ore is one of the key strategic resources driving this resurgence. With a growing demand for copper in electrical, construction, and renewable energy industries globally, Nigeria’s copper reserves—particularly in states like Zamfara, Nasarawa, Plateau, and Kebbi—have drawn interest from both local entrepreneurs and international buyers.
Augustina Impex Limited, a pioneer in mineral sourcing and exportation, is at the forefront of this evolution—bridging the gap between Nigeria’s raw copper ore reserves and the global market.
1. Overview of Copper Ore in Nigeria
Copper is a reddish-brown metal used in electrical conductors, construction, electronics, and industrial machinery. It occurs naturally in ores such as chalcopyrite, bornite, malachite, and azurite, and is typically found in vein deposits or as part of polymetallic formations alongside lead, zinc, and gold.
Known Copper-Rich Regions in Nigeria:
- Zamfara State: Rich in chalcopyrite deposits
- Plateau State: Hosts copper associated with tin and columbite mining belts
- Kebbi & Nasarawa States: Known for artisanal and small-scale copper mining
- Bauchi & Kaduna States: Emerging copper exploration zones
2. Copper Ore Grades and Uses
In Nigeria, copper ore is typically sold based on its Cu content, which varies between 5% to over 20%. Here’s a breakdown of commonly traded copper ore grades:
| Cu Content (%) | Trade Value & Use |
|---|---|
| 5% – 8% | Low-grade; often blended for smelting |
| 10% – 13% | Medium-grade; suitable for most commercial uses |
| 15% – 25% | High-grade; desirable for direct export |
Copper is in high demand for:
- Electrical wiring and cables
- Renewable energy infrastructure (wind, solar)
- Plumbing and building materials
- Electronics and semiconductors
- Automotive and industrial machinery
3. Copper Ore Production Process in Nigeria
a. Exploration & Survey:
Initial geological surveys are carried out to identify copper-rich veins using methods like electromagnetic and geochemical analysis.
b. Artisanal & Small-Scale Mining (ASM):
In many parts of Nigeria, mining is done manually with basic tools. Augustina Impex partners with registered ASM cooperatives for ethical sourcing.
c. Aggregation & Beneficiation:
Once mined, ores are sorted, cleaned, and in some cases, crushed to desired sizes. High-grade ores are separated for export, while lower grades may undergo further processing.
d. Logistics & Warehousing:
Mined copper ore is transported to secure warehouses in mineral hubs like Jos (Plateau State) where it’s weighed, tested, and packaged for delivery.
4. Copper Ore Trading in Nigeria
Trading copper ore in Nigeria involves interactions between:
- Local Miners/Producers
- Aggregators & Buying Centers
- Exporters & End Buyers
- Middlemen/Facilitators
Augustina Impex Limited serves as a licensed aggregator and exporter, sourcing directly from miners, ensuring quality control, and handling all regulatory documentation for export.
5. Export Procedures for Copper Ore
Exporting copper ore from Nigeria involves several key steps:
A. Licensing and Documentation
- NEPC Registration: Required for all exporters
- Ministry of Mines Permit: To confirm legal mineral sourcing
- Form NXP (Export Declaration): For customs processing
- Quality Report (AAS or XRF): Verifies Cu content
- Commercial Documents: Invoice, packing list, analysis certificate
B. Logistics & Port Handling
- Warehousing at ports like Apapa or Tin Can
- Loading into containers (usually in jumbo bags)
- Inspection by government agencies (SON, NDLEA, Customs)
C. Payment and Shipping
- Typical Incoterms: FOB Lagos, EXW Jos, or CIF Port of Destination
- Payment: LC, TT, or Cash Advance (depending on buyer agreement)
- Transit Time: 3–4 weeks depending on destination
6. Opportunities and Challenges in the Sector
Opportunities:
- Increasing global demand for copper due to green energy boom
- Vast untapped reserves across Nigeria
- Growing interest from China, India, and Europe
- Potential for value-addition and local refining
Challenges:
- Limited processing/refining capacity
- Infrastructure deficits (roads, power)
- Illegal mining activities and insecurity in certain regions
- Bureaucratic bottlenecks in export clearance
7. Augustina Impex Limited – Your Trusted Copper Ore Supplier
Who We Are:
Augustina Impex Limited is a fully registered and licensed Nigerian mining and export company with over a decade of experience in the mineral supply chain. Our operations span mineral exploration, local sourcing, export facilitation, and buyer-vendor relations across Nigeria, West Africa, and beyond.Our Key Copper Ore Services:
- Direct supply of copper ore (5% – 25% Cu content)
- Sample provision and third-party testing
- Export logistics and compliance
- Buyer-seller negotiations and contract facilitation
Other Minerals We Export:
- Lithium Ore
- Zircon Sand
- Ilmenite Sand
- Monazite Sand
- Lead Ore
- Tin Ore
- Columbite
- Tantalite
- Fluorite
8. Conclusion
Nigeria’s copper ore industry holds tremendous promise for investors, traders, and international buyers. With increasing industrial applications and global supply shortages, the demand for quality copper ore is on the rise.
By partnering with reputable companies like Augustina Impex Limited, buyers are assured of transparency, consistency, and professional service throughout the production and export process.
📩 Ready to Do Business?
Reach out to us today to request a quote or inquire about samples:
Kolawole King
Chief Executive Officer
📱 WhatsApp: +234 906 090 4274
📧 Email: augustinaimpex@gmail.com
🌐 Website: www.augustinaimpex.com.ng
