PROSPECTS OF OIL SAND MINING IN NIGERIA

Authors
  • Omotehinse, A. O.

    Federal University of Technology Akure, Ondo State Nigeria

Keywords:
Surface mining, in-situ mining, upgrading, Nigerian oil sands, Athabasca oil sands, oil sands prospects
Abstract

An overview of oil sands in the southwestern region of Nigeria was carried out to critically discuss why the oil sands should be developed. A review reserves statistics was carried out within different locations and it shows the presence of extensive oil sands deposits and indicates that the oil sands bearing beds are continuous throughout the study area. The laboratory analysis of samples collected during the fieldwork showed that the samples collected have a high bitumen content and the sulphur content was within the range of 1.91% and 0.89%. Outcrops of oil sands were visible on the banks of most of the rivers and farmlands are seen impregnated with bitumen. Some drilled holes were seen, which confirmed the previous exploration activities in the area. The presence of oil sands deposit at a very shallow depth was confirmed indicating that surface mining can be carried out in the area. Therefore, oil sands should be developed in Nigeria for the country's self-reliance on its own natural resource, and the exploitation of this resource will offer a great opportunity for technological development. In addition, the country will be able to save a huge amount of foreign exchange and reduce the dependence on crude oil resources.

Author Biography
  1. Omotehinse, A. O., Federal University of Technology Akure, Ondo State Nigeria

    Department of Mining Engineering

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2023-05-31
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How to Cite

PROSPECTS OF OIL SAND MINING IN NIGERIA. (2023). FUTA JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING AND ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY, 17(1), 62-72. https://doi.org/10.51459/futajeet.2023.17.1.567

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