Explore Nigeria's zinc ore industry — from mining to export. Learn how Augustina Impex Limited leads in sourcing, trading, and global supply.
Introduction
Nigeria is richly endowed with a wide array of solid minerals, including zinc ore, which has emerged as a key commodity in both local and international markets. Zinc is primarily used for galvanizing steel, producing alloys like brass, manufacturing batteries, and in various industrial and pharmaceutical applications.With growing global demand and Nigeria’s significant zinc deposits, the sector presents lucrative opportunities for miners, traders, exporters, and investors. This article explores the full value chain — from production to trading and export — and how companies like Augustina Impex Limited are playing a central role in transforming Nigeria’s zinc potential into economic growth.
Zinc Ore in Nigeria: Geological Profile
Zinc ore, often mined alongside lead ore, is found in sedimentary and metamorphic rock formations. The ore typically occurs in sulphide forms such as sphalerite (ZnS) and may contain varying grades, ranging from 30% to over 50% zinc content depending on the deposit.
Major Zinc Ore Mining Locations in Nigeria:
- Abakaliki (Ebonyi State)
- Zamfara State
- Kaduna State
- Plateau State (especially Wase and Langtang areas)
- Nasarawa and Taraba States
- Kogi and Niger States
These regions have witnessed both artisanal and mechanized zinc ore mining, with room for expansion in exploration and sustainable practices.
Zinc Ore Grades and Uses
The commercial value of zinc ore is heavily influenced by its grade:
| Grade | Zn Content | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Low Grade | 30% - 39% | Local smelting, blending |
| Medium Grade | 40% - 45% | Export-grade |
| High Grade | 46% and above | Preferred by international buyers for direct smelting |
Key Industrial Uses of Zinc:
- Galvanization of iron and steel (to prevent rust)
- Die-casting alloys for automobiles, machinery, and electronics
- Battery manufacturing
- Pharmaceuticals and cosmetics
- Zinc oxide for paints, rubber, and agriculture
The Production Process
1. Exploration and Site Selection
Geological surveys and sample testing (using AAS, XRF, or ICP methods) determine the viability of mining operations.
2. Mining and Excavation
Artisanal or mechanized miners extract the ore using surface or underground methods, depending on terrain and deposit depth.
3. Ore Processing and Beneficiation
Collected ore is crushed, washed, and sieved to remove impurities. Gravity separation, flotation, or jigging may be used to increase purity.
4. Grading and Bagging
The zinc content is measured, and the ore is categorized accordingly before being bagged (usually in 50kg or 1-ton jumbo sacks) for sale or export.
Local Trading of Zinc Ore
In Nigeria’s solid minerals ecosystem, zinc ore is commonly traded through buying centers in mining towns like Jos, Wase, Gusau, and Gwagwalada. Middlemen aggregate products from miners and sell to local processors or export brokers.
Key Participants:
- Small-scale miners
- Licensed buying agents
- Export companies
- Logistics facilitators
Prices vary based on:
- Grade
- Market demand
- Seasonality
- Global zinc price index (LME reference)
Exporting Zinc Ore from Nigeria
1. Licensing and Documentation
To export legally, companies must acquire:
- NEPC Export Certificate
- Federal Ministry of Mines Permit
- Customs Documentation (NXP, Form M)
- Commercial Invoice & Packing List
- Certificate of Origin
- SGS or laboratory test results
2. Shipping and Incoterms
Most Nigerian exporters use FOB (Free on Board) or EX-WORKS terms, with shipments departing from ports like Apapa (Lagos) or Onne (Port Harcourt).Exporters usually supply zinc ore in containers (20-ft or 40-ft), and international buyers prefer:
- Clean, moisture-free packaging
- Transparent lab results
- Consistent supply volume (from 50 MT to 1,000+ MT monthly)
The Role of Augustina Impex Limited
Who We Are
Augustina Impex Limited is a leading Nigerian mineral trading and export company headquartered in Jos, Plateau State. With over a decade of experience, we specialize in the sourcing, processing, and exportation of industrial minerals including:
- Zinc Ore
- Lead Ore
- Copper Ore
- Ilmenite Sand
- Zircon Sand
- Monazite Sand
- Lithium Ore (Spodumene, Amblygonite)
- Tantalite & Columbite
Our Services:
- Export facilitation and logistics
- Mineral sourcing and quality control
- Mineral testing (AAS/XRF/ICP analysis)
- Export documentation and compliance
- Consultancy and training through our Augustina Impex Mining Academy
Visit our blog for updates: https://augustinaimpexng.blogspot.com
Challenges Facing Zinc Ore Exporters
- Fluctuating global prices
- Poor road infrastructure in mining zones
- Lack of processing plants for value addition
- Policy changes on raw mineral exports
However, opportunities abound for exporters who embrace quality control, efficient logistics, and international best practices.
How to Get Started in the Zinc Ore Export Business
- Register with CAC and NEPC
- Conduct market research and testing
- Build relationships with mining cooperatives or buying centers
- Partner with a trusted exporter like Augustina Impex Limited
- Start small (20–50 MT) and scale gradually
Conclusion
Zinc ore remains one of Nigeria’s untapped export goldmines. With abundant deposits and rising global demand, the sector promises high returns for those who are informed, strategic, and consistent. At Augustina Impex Limited, we’re committed to helping buyers and investors tap into this opportunity with transparency, reliability, and professionalism.Want to partner with us?
📧 Email: augustinaimpex@gmail.com
📞 WhatsApp: +234 906 090 4274
