In line with the commitment of the Federal Government to deploy innovative technology to geological exploration and mineral analysis, the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) on Thursday convened a “Technical Workshop on Mineral Analysis In Seconds,” in collaboration with Titan Minerals—a leading mineral exploration company.
During the one-day event, geoscientists were excited as they observed the SciAps and Titan resource persons demonstrate how the SciAps range of handheld XRF and LIBS analyzers are used to analyze minerals within a timeframe of seconds. The live demonstrations on rocks, soil and ore samples showcased cutting-edge innovations in mineral analysis. In the same vein, the collaborating organizations further showcased how the SciAps product line can be applied in geological mapping, mineral exploration and geochemical surveys.
Director-General, Nigerian Geological Survey Agency, NGSA, Professor Olusegun Omoniyi Ige welcomed participants, resource persons and thanked SciAps and Titan Minerals for their commitment to the development of mining and the geosciences in Nigeria and around the world. Ige, a Professor of Geology and mineral science, thanked the JORC-certified structural geologist at Titan Minerals, Dr. Warwick Crowe while applauding his contribution to the development of the industry as worthy of note.
The Director General encouraged participants to be inquisitive and assured that Pieter Du Preez of SciAps and Fadi Abou Ghazale of Titan Minerals will respond generously to questions. “I enjoin all participants to take this workshop serious,” he said.
Professor Ige said the initiative followed discussions with SciAps representatives during the 2026 Nigeria Mining Week, adding that the collaboration was arranged within 48 hours to provide NGSA personnel with practical knowledge of the technology.
He explained that portable analytical equipment would enable geologists to identify minerals and obtain relevant field data more quickly, reducing delays associated with transporting samples to laboratories before making decisions.
The Professor of Geology and mineral science pointed out that knowledge of analytical equipment was essential not only for laboratory personnel but also for geologists, geophysicists, metallurgists, and other earth science professionals.
According to the NGSA Director General, a better understanding of analytical procedures would improve the quality of geological investigations, strengthen professional competence and enable staff to explain and defend their findings during technical assessments.
Professor Ige identified limited domestic capacity and concerns about the reliability of local analytical processes as some of the challenges facing Nigeria’s mineral exploration sector. He expressed optimism that the partnership would help strengthen the country’s capacity to conduct mineral analysis locally.
Chief Executive Officer, Titan Minerals, Mr. Fadi Abou Ghazale explained that in mineral analysis, the reliability of result and the time it takes to produce reliable results are crucial. He therefore commended SciAps for what he described as “groundbreaking innovations in geosciences equipment,” stating, “Recently, SciAps introduced some groundbreaking equipment to the market. SciAps is the first manufacturer of a handheld lithium analyzer which is the LIBS analyzer. It is the first of its kind and it is commendable.”
“Without any contradiction, these analyzers are the latest innovations and NGSA is doing well to put in place this workshop that aims to acquaint its technical staff with the innovations in mineral exploration and sample analysis.”
“This is why we are working together to bring the analyzers to the mining and geosciences industry in Nigeria, and we hope that the NGSA will take the lead in acquiring them toward ensuring the greater fulfillment of its mandate of geological survey, mineral exploration and reliable, timely analysis of ore samples,” he added.
Discussing the affordability of the SciAps range of equipment, Ghazale explained that it is common knowledge that the mining industry is capital intensive, adding that mining investors are aware of the high cost of equipment.
Ghazale who expressed optimism that the equipment can be afforded, explained that there are two modules by which the can be acquired: “The first module is for high net worth individuals, companies and associations,” he said, adding that while the equipment may not be expensive, its prices are highly competitive.”
“The other way is to access them through Titan Minerals which is the accredited representative of SciAps in Nigeria.”
“We are also considering a third option which may have to do with leasing out the equipment to companies and groups that would need them,” he added.
The Titan Minerals boss noted that innovations in analytical equipment had created new opportunities for mineral exploration and resource development, and expressed confidence that the collaboration would support the growing demand for reliable mineral identification in Nigeria.
In his presentation, Director of SciAps, Dr. Pieter Du Preez assured that the organisation is committed to ensuring that customers maximize the output of the SciAps range of handheld XRF and LIBS analyzers, adding that the innovative equipment is high-tech and specifically designed to guarantee reliable results in geological exploration and mineral data generation.
Discussing the accuracy of results obtained when SciAps range of handheld XRF and LIBS Analyzer are used, the SciAps Director stated, “While SciAps can already measue Parts Per Million (PPM) levels of gold, SciAps also has the ability to introduce Parts Per Billion (PPB) level gold results when used in conjunction with a leeching method from Portable PPB in Australia in 12 hours.”
He therefore assured that SciAps is willing to provide after-sales support services to include onsite calibration assistance and operational training on how to navigate the instruments.
According to the Director, SciAps can also perform remote diagnostic services for users of its range of products while Titan Minerals will also provide first line technical support or services on the instruments.
Preez said the SciAps technologies can be deployed to support mineral exploration, drill-core analysis, grade control, identify critical minerals, environmental assessment, precious-metal testing and industrial quality control. He highlighted the company’s cloud-based software, which enables users to access measurement data and generate reports remotely.
According to Du Preez, the partnership with Titan Minerals would combine SciAps’ technology and global expertise with Titan’s vast experience in mineral exploration and knowledge of the continental geological terrain.
Titan Minerals has earned eminence through its penchant for world-class best practices, longstanding experience in mineral exploration, ability to provide technical support as well as its established operational relationships.
Preez expressed optimism that the collaboration would improve access to analytical services, strengthen after-sales support and help Nigeria and other West African countries develop their mineral resources more efficiently.
