Editorial: Nickel discovered in Oti Region…

Mineable nickel deposits have been discovered in the Oti Region – a development that could diversify the country’s mineral portfolio and attract investment into battery-metal supply chains.

This find was made during ongoing iron ore exploration in the Gyamurume range by the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC) and Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA).

Preliminary drill samples indicate nickel concentrations exceeding one percent, making it commercially viable and raising the prospect of Ghana joining the global race for critical minerals.

While officials say the early data is promising, certified laboratory results will confirm that optimism. Consequently, GIISDEC has commissioned consultants to conduct a comprehensive mineral content analysis, expected to be completed by September 2025.

The study will determine the grade, volume and distribution of both iron and nickel across the site. Once validated, the findings will be packaged for investors with an aim of attracting capital into the full value chain rather than piece-meal extraction.

GGSA confirmed the presence of nickel in all eight drill holes completed so far.

“The concentrations observed are within the economic range – in some cases even exceeding one percent – which is considered mineable for nickel,” David Yaw Kuma, senior geoscientist with GGSA notes.

Nickel is a key input in lithium-ion batteries and demand has surged in recent years due to the accelerating global energy transition. Ghana’s entrance into the nickel market would align with its broader strategy to position itself as a critical minerals supplier.

Meanwhile, the Ewoyaa Lithium Project is being developed in Central Region – which is projected to produce around 365,000 tonnes of spodumene concentrate annually. These signal Ghana’s growing ambition in battery-metals, traditionally dominated by countries like Indonesia, the Philippines and Australia.

In order not to build hopes up too high, both GIISDEC and GGSA say it’s too early to draw firm conclusions.

Should commercial viability be confirmed, the nickel discovery is expected to boost investor interest in Oti Region and contribute to Ghana’s longer-term plans of expanding and modernising its mining sector.

Lithium and nickel are crucial components for manufacturing lithium-ion batteries, particularly those used in electric vehicles (EVs). Lithium is essential for the battery’s overall structure and charge storage capacity, while nickel plays a key role in enhancing energy density and extending the range of EVs.

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