As global demand for titanium feedstock continues to rise, driven by aerospace, pigment, and renewable energy industries, buyers are increasingly looking toward Nigeria as a new, reliable source of ilmenite (titanium ore). The country’s expanding mining sector, combined with accessible port logistics and competitive pricing, makes it an attractive option for importers.
However, before you place your first order or sign a supply contract, there are critical facts and insights you need to know about importing ilmenite ore from Nigeria. Understanding these details ensures that your transactions are smooth, compliant, and profitable.
1. Nigeria Has Commercial-Grade Ilmenite Deposits (50–73% TiO₂)
Nigeria’s ilmenite is no longer an exploration fantasy; it’s a verified resource.
Across states such as Ogun, Nasarawa, Kaduna, Kano, Plateau, Cross River, and Kogi, the mineral occurs in commercial quantities with grades ranging between 50% and 73% TiO₂.
These grades meet global feedstock standards for titanium pigment, welding rods, and ferro-titanium applications.
👉 Tip: Always confirm the assay certificate of the ore to ensure it meets your required specification.
2. Ilmenite Export Is Fully Legal with Required Permits
Contrary to common myths, exporting ilmenite from Nigeria is legal and regulated under the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act (2007) and managed by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (MSMD).
To export legitimately, suppliers must possess:
- A valid Export Permit from the MSMD
- A Mineral Buying Center License/ Permit to Purchase & Possess or Small-Scale Mining Lease
- A registered corporate export company (CAC)
- NEPC Export Permit
3. FOB (Free On Board) Terms Are the Most Common for Ilmenite Exports
Most Nigerian ilmenite transactions are either ‘see and buy’ at the warehouse/ mine, or quoted on FOB Lagos/Port Harcourt terms.
This means that the seller bears the cost of:
- Ore procurement
- Trucking to the port
- Port charges and customs clearance
- Loading into the shipping vessel
The buyer only takes responsibility after the cargo is loaded onboard, making it cost-efficient and logistically predictable.
📦 Typical price: Around ₦300,870 per ton (≈ USD 202/ton) for a 50–73% TiO₂ grade, FOB Lagos or Port Harcourt.
4. Logistics from Mine to Port Are Streamlined
Nigeria’s mineral logistics are improving rapidly.
Most suppliers operate integrated systems that handle:
- Ore trucking from mine to warehouse
- Rebagging and container loading (40-ft container ≈ 54 tons)
- Port clearance (Apapa, Tin Can Island, or Onne Port)
Transit from inland mining regions to ports typically takes 3–5 days, and loading formalities are completed within one week.
This efficiency supports a consistent supply for recurring buyers.
5. Shipment Can Be Arranged from Two Main Ports
Buyers can choose between:
- Lagos Ports (Apapa / Tin Can Island) – Best for containerized shipments to Europe and the Americas
- Port Harcourt (Onne) – Ideal for bulk shipments to Asia and the Middle East
Both ports have full customs presence, container terminals, and mineral export facilities.
Nigeria’s dual-port advantage means exporters can serve multiple global routes efficiently.
6. Documentation Is Straightforward but Must Be Accurate
Exporting ilmenite from Nigeria requires complete and properly executed documents.
Standard export documentation includes:
- Certificate of Origin
- Bill of Lading
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Analysis/Assay Report
- Clean Certificate of Inspection (CCI) from government-accredited agencies
Buyers should cross-check these before shipment confirmation. Missing or incorrect paperwork can delay customs clearance in destination ports.
7. Direct Sourcing Reduces Costs and Middleman Risks
Nigeria’s emerging mining sector favors direct buyer-seller engagement. Platforms like Nigerian Mineral Exchange (NME) eliminate unnecessary intermediaries by connecting buyers straight to verified sellers and licensed miners.
The benefits include:
- Transparent, factory-gate pricing
- Faster response to order inquiries
- Direct communication with logistics handlers
- Reliable follow-up on repeat shipments
👉 Result: Lower costs, faster delivery, and stronger long-term supplier relationships.
Conclusion
Importing ilmenite from Nigeria is a smart business move if you do it correctly.
With competitive pricing, abundant reserves, reliable logistics, and regulated exports, Nigeria stands as one of Africa’s most promising sources of titanium feedstock.
When you combine traceable sourcing with FOB efficiency and strong seller verification (via NME), you gain both profitability and peace of mind.
So, whether you’re a titanium pigment producer, alloy manufacturer, or mineral trader, Nigeria deserves a place on your sourcing map.
How We Can Help You
📦 Looking for a steady supply of Nigerian Ilmenite (Titanium Ore)?
💬 WhatsApp: +234 813 079 9304
or visit the NME Ilmenite Listing Page to request an official FOB quotation today.
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