By Engr Fatai Jimoh MNSME, R-comeg.
Abstract
Nigeria is endowed with significant coal deposits, which have been utilized for decades. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the occurrences of coal in Nigeria, the various mining methods employed, the challenges faced by the industry, and the economic importance of coal to the country. Despite the potential of coal, the industry faces multiple hurdles that hinder its full development. Nonetheless, coal remains a vital resource for energy generation, industrial processes, and economic growth in Nigeria.
Introduction
Coal, a fossil fuel formed from the remains of ancient plants that have been subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years, is one of Nigeria’s key natural resources. While the country’s coal reserves were initially significant contributors to its energy production and industrial development, the discovery and subsequent dominance of oil and gas have reduced coal’s role in the national energy mix. Despite this, Nigeria’s coal reserves, primarily found in the central and eastern parts of the country, are of high quality and continue to hold substantial potential for power generation, industrial use, and economic development. This paper explores the distribution of coal deposits in Nigeria, the mining techniques employed, the challenges facing the industry, and the economic significance of coal to the country’s growth.
Occurrences of Coal in Nigeria
Nigeria’s coal reserves are located in the middle-belt, central and eastern part with substantial deposits found in:
Enugu State: Enugu is the most famous coal-producing state in Nigeria, historically referred to as the “Coal City.” The state boasts high-quality bituminous coal deposits that have been mined for over a century. The coal from Enugu has been essential for local power generation and industrial applications such as cement manufacturing.
Kogi State: Kogi’s coal deposits are found in regions like Okobo, Ogboyaga, and Ajaokuta. These deposits are rich in high-quality coal suitable for use in various industries. The state is also home to a significant coal mining operation, providing a large portion of the country’s coal output.
Benue State: Coal reserves in Benue are mainly located in areas such as Otukpo and Gboko. While the coal reserves here are not as vast as those in Enugu or Kogi, they still contribute to Nigeria’s overall coal resources.
Niger State: The coal deposits in Niger are found around the Kontagora and Minna regions. Though not as heavily mined as those in Enugu or Kogi, Niger’s coal potential remains significant, especially as the country seeks to diversify its energy sources.
Edo State: Prominent coal deposits includes Afuze and Ekpoma area. Deposit of sub-bituminous coal being operated by King Gabriel & Jidet respectively to meet the end users needs,
Other coal-bearing states include Ondo, Plateau, and Imo, which host varying grades of coal deposits, including lignite and sub-bituminous coal.
The total coal reserves in Nigeria are estimated to be around 2.7 billion tons, with proven reserves of over 650 million tons, indicating substantial untapped potential.
Mining Methods in Nigeria
Nigeria employs several coal mining methods, depending on the depth and quality of the coal seams, and the economic viability of the operations. The primary mining methods in Nigeria include:
Underground Mining: This method involves the extraction of coal from beneath the earth’s surface through tunnels and shafts. While underground mining is more expensive and complex, it is used for deeper coal seams that are not accessible through open-pit mining. This method requires substantial infrastructure, technology, and safety protocols.
Open-Pit Mining: Open-pit mining, or surface mining, is the more commonly employed method in Nigeria, especially for coal deposits near the surface. It involves the removal of overburden (soil and rock) to expose coal seams, which are then extracted using heavy machinery and explosives. This method is more cost-effective but has significant environmental consequences, such as land degradation and deforestation.
Artisanal Mining: In some rural and less developed areas, artisanal coal mining persists. This method involves simple tools and manual labor, often by local communities. Artisanal mining is less efficient and more hazardous, and it contributes to environmental degradation due to the lack of appropriate safety measures and technology.
Coal Washing: To improve the quality of coal, washing is used to remove impurities such as sulfur, ash, and other non-coal materials. This process enhances the calorific value of the coal, making it more suitable for various industrial purposes. Coal washing is essential for ensuring that coal meets the required standards for industrial use.
Challenges Facing Coal Mining in Nigeria
Despite the potential for coal to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s energy and industrial sectors, several challenges hinder the development of the coal industry:
Inadequate Infrastructure: One of the major obstacles to the coal industry is the lack of adequate infrastructure. Poor transportation networks, especially railways, hinder the efficient movement of coal from mining sites to processing plants and power stations. The absence of reliable electricity also affects coal mining operations and the broader energy sector.
Environmental Concerns: Coal mining in Nigeria, especially open-pit mining, leads to deforestation, soil erosion, and water contamination. The environmental damage associated with coal mining is a serious concern, as it affects local ecosystems, agricultural land, and water resources. There is a growing need for the implementation of more sustainable mining practices and adherence to environmental regulations.
Safety Concerns: Coal mining is a dangerous occupation, and the lack of adequate safety equipment, proper training, and health regulations poses significant risks to workers. Accidents, mine collapses, and exposure to harmful dust and gases are common, leading to loss of life and long-term health problems among miners.
Competition from Other Energy Sources: The Nigerian energy market is heavily dominated by oil and natural gas, and the growing interest in renewable energy sources further threatens the competitiveness of coal. Additionally, Nigeria’s vast natural gas reserves have led to the development of gas-fired power plants, which have become the preferred source of energy.
Inconsistent Government Policies: Despite the potential of the coal industry, government policies have often been inconsistent or poorly implemented. Regulatory uncertainties, lack of investment incentives, and a focus on the oil and gas sector have left the coal industry underdeveloped. Without clear, supportive policies, it is difficult for the coal sector to attract both local and foreign investment.
Economic Importance of Coal in Nigeria
Despite these challenges, coal remains a vital resource with significant economic benefits for Nigeria:
Electricity Generation: Coal remains a crucial source of energy for power generation. Coal-fired power plants, if developed and optimized, can help reduce Nigeria’s electricity deficit and provide a stable energy supply to meet the growing demand of industries and households. The government has indicated its interest in reviving coal-fired power stations to contribute to the national grid.
Industrial Use: Coal plays an essential role in several industrial processes, including cement production, steel manufacturing, and food processing. As industries such as cement and steel production require large quantities of coal for fuel, the availability of local coal reduces Nigeria’s reliance on imported coal and enhances industrial self-sufficiency.
Employment Generation: Coal mining offers employment opportunities, both directly and indirectly, for thousands of Nigerians. From mining to transportation, processing, and the operation of coal-based industries, the sector provides jobs and contributes to local economies, especially in mining regions.
Revenue Generation: The coal industry contributes to government revenue through taxes, royalties, and licensing fees. With improved mining practices and increased output, the coal sector has the potential to generate substantial revenue for the Nigerian government, which can be reinvested into infrastructure and development projects.
Export Potential: Nigeria’s coal reserves offer the potential for international exports. Although Nigeria is not currently a major coal exporter, the global demand for coal in energy production and industrial applications presents opportunities for Nigeria to tap into the international market, providing a source of foreign exchange and boosting the economy.
Energy Security: Developing the coal industry can enhance Nigeria’s energy security, reducing dependence on oil and gas and diversifying the energy mix. Coal can serve as a reliable energy source during times of fuel shortages or global energy price volatility.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s coal resources, while underutilized in comparison to the oil and gas sectors, remain a vital part of the country’s energy and industrial landscape. The coal industry offers numerous benefits, from electricity generation and industrial use to job creation and revenue generation.
However, the sector faces significant challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, environmental concerns, safety risks, and competition from other energy sources.
To unlock the full potential of coal, Nigeria must prioritize the development of the coal industry through improved policies, sustainable mining practices, and increased investment. By addressing these challenges, coal can once again play a critical role in Nigeria’s economic development.
