Sustainability

Nigeria is home to over 1,000 registered mining operations, ranging from small-scale quarries to medium-sized extractive projects. However, many of these sites face persistent challenges, including unreliable power supply, limited access to clean water, and inefficient logistics, which hinder operational capacity and scale. Meanwhile, more than 80% of Nigeria's documented mineral deposits remain underexploited. These untapped zones often lack basic infrastructure, deterring both local and foreign investment. Through localized, grid-independent hybrid power systems and modular infrastructure deployment, SEAP seeks to unlock these dormant reserves and transform them into productive, income-generating assets.

Regulatory Guidance

SEAP's mining interventions are developed in alignment with national regulations under the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development. We collaborate closely with state-level Mineral Resources & Environmental Committees (MIREMs) to streamline processes and ensure legal compliance. This includes support for Small-Scale Mining Leases (SSML), Exploration Licenses (EL), and the enforcement of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs). We also encourage adherence to Community Development Agreements (CDAs), particularly in areas where mining operations interface with vulnerable populations. SEAP aims to pilot emission and water use standards tailored for hybrid-powered mining sites, and in future phases, will integrate geo-certification protocols using data verification and blockchain-ready records to ensure transparency and traceability.

Investment Opportunities

To operationalize the sector's potential, SEAP offers a series of investable interventions. Hybrid mini-grids—customized for mining applications—will be deployed across 1-3 sites per LGA, with investment requirements ranging between $300,000 and $750,000 and potential returns of 15-20%. Modular ore processing units are also part of the model, designed to match local mineral profiles. These facilities typically require $200,000 to $400,000 in capital input and promise ROIs of 18-22%. To power data-driven exploration and development, SEAP will offer GIS-based mining maps and insights under a regional licensing scheme, enabling developers and exploration firms to make informed decisions. Finally, water treatment systems essential for mineral processing will be introduced in clustered LGAs, with investments between $80,000 and $150,000 and an expected ROI of 12-15%.

SEAP's approach to mining is about more than minerals—it's about building a cleaner, more resilient foundation for industrialization, community growth, and sustainable resource management.