Nigeria's iron ore deposits are among the most promising in West Africa, and global steelmakers are increasingly looking to the country as a reliable non-traditional source. This guide explains the grades, chemistry and export considerations that matter when sourcing Nigerian iron ore in bulk.
Nigeria's Iron Ore Deposits
Commercial-grade iron ore is found in several Nigerian states, most notably Kogi, Nasarawa, Enugu, Kaduna and the Federal Capital Territory. The ore typically occurs as haematite and magnetite, with Fe content ranging from 45% to over 64% depending on the deposit and beneficiation level.
Common Grades
Nigerian iron ore is typically offered in three grades:
- Fe 60%: mid-grade, suitable for sinter plants
- Fe 62%: the global benchmark grade, ideal for blast furnaces and DRI plants
- Fe 64%+: high-grade concentrate for premium steel and specialty alloys
Chemical & Physical Specifications
Typical specification for Fe 62% Nigerian iron ore:
- Fe content: 62% minimum
- SiO₂: ≤ 5%
- Al₂O₃: ≤ 3%
- Sulphur: ≤ 0.05%
- Phosphorus: ≤ 0.05%
- Moisture: ≤ 8%
- Size: 0–10 mm (fines) or 10–40 mm (lump) depending on order
Export Compliance
Exporting iron ore from Nigeria requires the following:
- Mineral Title / Mining Licence (Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development)
- NEPC Exporter Registration
- Form NXP (Nigeria Export Proceeds form)
- Certificate of Origin
- SGS or equivalent assay / quality report
- Bill of Lading
Port Logistics & Shipping
Most Nigerian iron ore exports move through:
- Port of Lagos (Apapa / Tin Can): best for containerised or break-bulk shipments
- Port Harcourt: alternative for eastern deposits
- Bulk terminals: available for Handymax and Panamax vessels
Standard bulk shipment sizes range from 5,000 MT (Handysize) to 60,000 MT (Panamax). Transit time to China is approximately 35–45 days; to Europe 20–30 days.
Choosing a Reliable Supplier
Look for a supplier who:
- Operates under a valid mineral title
- Provides independent assay reports from SGS, Bureau Veritas or Intertek
- Has a track record of loading vessels on schedule
- Offers transparent Incoterms and quality guarantees
DCCNL Nigeria Limited supplies Fe 60–64% iron ore from vetted sites in Nigeria with full assay documentation, reliable logistics and competitive pricing.
Request a Quotation
Ready to source Nigerian iron ore? Contact our export desk or chat with us on WhatsApp for a formal quotation.