President of ZIRCONEX Mining and Metal Laboratory Limited, Christopher Uyime Ebong, has stressed that laboratory analysis is central to determining the true economic value of Nigeria’s mineral resources.

Ebong made this known in Abuja during the inauguration of an XRD facility, noting that the success of any exploration project ultimately hinges on laboratory verification.

He cautioned that exploration without credible lab data could lead to costly mistakes, insisting that only proper scientific analysis can confirm whether mineral deposits are economically viable.

“No matter how beautiful your exploration is, it still ends up in a lab. It is the lab that defines whether your data is bankable or not,” he said.

The ZIRCONEX president explained that bankable data must come from laboratories capable of delivering precise elemental composition and detailed mineralogical analysis—an essential requirement for attracting investors and boosting confidence in Nigeria’s mining industry.

On partnerships, Ebong revealed that the company is collaborating with the Nigerian Geological Society, the Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria, and the Federal Ministry of Environment to strengthen operations and ensure compliance with standards.

According to him, these collaborations will support seamless laboratory processes and enhance regulatory alignment.

He, however, called for stronger government intervention to tackle structural challenges within the sector. Describing the industry as largely informal, Ebong urged both federal and state governments to put in place systems that would improve regulation and ensure data integrity.

He also advocated frameworks to standardise exploration, laboratory testing, and data management in line with global best practices.

In his remarks, President of the Geological Society of Nigeria, Malami Uba Saidu, said the new facility is aimed at addressing long-standing gaps in the mining value chain.

Saidu noted that the development from Zirconex would reduce Nigeria’s dependence on foreign laboratories, which often result in delays, high costs, and project setbacks.

“With this capability now available locally, we can accurately determine mineral composition and assess deposit viability in a cost-effective and timely manner,” he said.

1. He described the initiative as a significant boost to investor confidence, emphasising that reliable data remains critical for resource estimation and project financing.