Nigeria is known to have abundant solid mineral resources spread across different locations within the country. Here are some of the key solid minerals found in Nigeria and their respective locations:
1. Coal
Nigeria has significant coal deposits, primarily located in the southeastern and north-central parts of the country. Major coal mines are situated in Enugu, Benue, Kogi, and Gombe states.
2. Tin
Nigeria was once a leading exporter of tin, and the mineral is predominantly found in Plateau, Nasarawa, and Kano states. Jos, the capital of Plateau State, is historically known for its tin mining activities.
3. Limestone
Limestone is a widely available mineral in Nigeria. Major deposits can be found in states such as Cross River, Sokoto, Edo, Ogun, and Benue. The limestone deposits in these areas are used for cement production and other industrial purposes.
4. Iron Ore
Nigeria has substantial iron ore deposits, primarily in Kogi, Enugu, Niger, and Zamfara states. The Itakpe iron ore deposit in Kogi State is one of the largest in Nigeria and is operated by the National Iron Ore Mining Company.
5. Lead and Zinc
Lead and zinc ores are found in several states, including Ebonyi, Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau, and Taraba. The Jos Plateau in Plateau State is known for its rich lead and zinc deposits.
6. Gold
Nigeria has recently witnessed increased exploration and mining of gold. Promising gold prospects exist in states such as Osun, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, and Kaduna. Artisanal and small-scale mining activities are prevalent in some of these areas.
7. Baryte (Barite)
Baryte deposits can be found in states like Benue, Cross River, and Nasarawa. Nigeria is known to possess one of the largest baryte resources in the world.
8. Gypsum
Nigeria has significant gypsum deposits in states such as Adamawa, Anambra, Borno, and Benue. Gypsum is utilized in the production of cement and plaster of Paris.
9. Bitumen
Nigeria has substantial bitumen reserves in states such as Ondo, Lagos, Ogun, and Edo. Bitumen is used in road construction and various other industrial applications.
10. Gemstones
Nigeria has a wide variety of gemstones, including tourmaline, sapphire, topaz, garnet, and emerald. Gemstone deposits can be found in states such as Kaduna, Bauchi, Nasarawa, and Oyo.
It’s important to note that the availability and exact locations of solid mineral resources can vary, and exploration activities are ongoing to identify additional deposits within the country.
See also
Resources from Non-living Things (Solid Material)
Economic Importance of Plant and Animal Resources
Resources from living things
DRUG AND DRUG ABUSE