Heliborne Magnetic Survey Reveals Internal Architecture of the Oka Carbonatite

Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - September 16, 2026) - Nio Strategic Metals Inc. (TSXV: NIO) (OTCQB: NIOCF) ("Nio" or the "Corporation"), a critical mineral exploration company, is pleased to announce the results and geo-structural interpretation of the high-resolution heliborne magnetic and radiometric survey flown over its 100%-owned Oka property. The interpretation was recently completed by Jean David, Senior Geophysicist, and Ali Ben Ayad, Senior Geologist, as the first phase of a geoscientific compilation and synthesis of the historical geological and geophysical data on the Oka carbonatite complex, undertaken with the specific objective of targeting rare earth element ("REE") mineralization. Since 1952, exploration at Oka has been directed almost exclusively at niobium, even though the niobium-bearing zones are frequently accompanied by rare earth minerals, as shown by the first analyses carried out in 1958 (Nickel, GSC), by various academic studies and, more recently, by the Impact Global Solutions' ("IGS") metallurgical study (see the Corporation's press release of August 4, 2026). The new interpretation work integrates the 2023 survey data with seventy years of historical drilling, trenching, mapping and academic research. This geoscientific compilation has brought to light the three-dimensional architecture of the intrusion and the geo-structural settings most likely to host significant REE concentrations. The 2023 survey, flown by Prospectair, covered the entire property, including the North and South Rings of the carbonatite and their Grenvillian host rocks: 921 line-kilometres on 25-metre line spacing, with a magnetometer at a mean height of 33 metres and a gamma-ray spectrometer (potassium, uranium, thorium) at 52 metres (Figure 1). Figure 1. Area covered by the 2023 magnetic and spectrometric surveys. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11015/314676_7a62d7eae4ef89af_001full.jpg The Oka magnetics show a highly variable total magnetic intensity (TMI, Figure 2) (range of 12,370 nT), with strong magnetic anomalies forming triangular and/or crescent-shaped bodies characteristic of dyke-type intrusives. The Grenvillian host rocks, to the north and east, show lower magnetic background values and reduced variability, typical of areas dominated by metasedimentary rocks (paragneiss) or felsic to intermediate intrusive rocks (orthogneiss). Figure 2 shows the position of the various mineralized zones within and at the edge of the carbonatite complex on the magnetic maps, together with its approximate interpreted contact. Figure 2. (a) Residual total field (TMI) and approximate limits of the carbonatite. (b) Magnetic tilt derivative (TDR) and approximate limits of the carbonatite. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11015/314676_7a62d7eae4ef89af_002full.jpg The structural interpretation of the magnetic lineaments reveals several structures: ductile structures within the Grenvillian rocks, shear zones (C1, C2, C3) and regional brittle structures. These lineaments, highlighted by the various processing steps (filters), allow a structural scheme of the North Ring of the carbonatite and its Grenvillian host to be proposed (Figure 3). This scheme shows the existence of three major shear zones: A shear corridor in the extreme northwest (C1), NE-trending and visibly sinistral, which truncates the carbonatite and hosts the Advance showing. A shear zone bounding the northeastern flank of the carbonatite at the contact with the Grenvillian rocks (C2). A sinistral strike-slip shear separating the North Ring from the South Ring of the intrusion (C3). It is probably this fault that produced the "distortion of the number 8" cited by all authors who have worked on this carbonatite (see Figure 4). Figure 3. (a) Residual total field (TMI) and interpreted structures. (b) Magnetic tilt derivative (TDR) and interpreted structures. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11015/314676_7a62d7eae4ef89af_003full.jpg Figure 4. Synthetic geological map of the Oka carbonatite showing the location of niobium showings and mines (from Proulx, 2003, after Gold), illustrating the "distortion of the number 8" formed by the two rings. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11015/314676_7a62d7eae4ef89af_004full.jpg Husereau Hill, according to the geophysics and field data, corresponds to one of the largest dykes, located at the northern end of the carbonatite. Figure 5 clearly shows the lateral closure of this multiply-filled dyke (fish shape). In the central part of the carbonatite (Figure 6), the large arcuate, crescent-shaped magnetic structure of the Bond Zone also corresponds to a major dyke perfectly traced by the magnetic susceptibility contrast. Figure 5. Surface geology of the Husereau Hill dyke (Gold and Vallée, S-101). To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11015/314676_7a62d7eae4ef89af_005full.jpg Figure 6. Identification of crescent-shaped, arcuate structures in the Oka carbonatite (on the magnetic tilt derivative, TDR). To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11015/314676_7a62d7eae4ef89af_006full.jpg Within the North Ring, five major magmatic structures have been defined, organized broadly along the NW-SE elongation axis of the carbonatite. These dykes are strongly magnetic owing to the presence of altered ultra-alkaline rocks (okaite and ijolite-urtite) and of their biotite- and magnetite-bearing carbonatite host. From north to south, they are the Husereau, Manny North, Manny, Bond and Central Structure (S60-Wayfair Zone) dykes. The magnetic inversion sections clearly individualize the different dykes observed at surface, establish their overall dip and suggest a possible connection between all of these dykes at depth (800 metres and beyond). Within these dykes, several secondary magnetic axes are frequently observed, probably reflecting multiple injections, separated by weakly magnetic intercalations of carbonate rocks, essentially dolomitic to the north and calcitic towards the centre of the carbonatite. These carbonates are generally strongly altered (carbonatization, biotitization) and carry magnetite, apatite and traces of pyrochlore and perovskite. It is in these carbonates that rare earth elements have been reported by various authors (Nickel, GSC, 1958; Eby, N., 1974), as REE carbonates (ancylite, bastnäsite) and phosphates (monazite), always cryptocrystalline and/or intergrown, and probably also as inclusions in other minerals (strontianite and barite), with grades in selected samples ranging from 1.5 to 4% total rare earth oxides. Beyond the carbonatite host of the REE, the work of Nelson Eby (1974) helped identify the ultra-alkaline silicate rock facies showing the greatest relative REE enrichment, namely, in decreasing order, the okaites, the ijolites and finally the metasomatic contact facies between the carbonatite and its host rocks, which are often digested by the calcitic carbonatite (ultrafenites). Among the minerals sampled and analyzed in these silicate facies, the highest REE and yttrium concentrations occur in apatite, niocalite, perovskite and pyrochlore. In the calcitic carbonatite (sövite) at the core of the North Ring of the Oka intrusion (S60, Bond and Wayfair niobium deposits), at least four generations of pyrochlore have been identified (Proulx, A., 2003), and at least two of these niobium-rich pyrochlore generations also carry a radioactive signature (Th and U) and are REE-rich. Among the REE, cerium is present at high concentration levels (between 2.1 and 15.8% CeO). It is associated with pyrochlore (ceriopyrochlore) and the other niobium minerals (niocalite, perovskite), as well as with apatite and monazite, the latter being relatively abundant in this central part. In summary, three types of REE mineralization have been distinguished: REE associated with niobium minerals (pyrochlore, perovskite and niocalite), REE associated with phosphates (apatite, monazite and britholite) and REE associated with carbonates (ancylite and bastnäsite). There is a strong correlation between these REE minerals and the presence of thorium anomalies and, to a lesser extent, uranium anomalies. The same correlation exists with the niobium minerals and has been used since the earliest exploration work (magnetic-radiometric prospecting); however, Nb₂O₅ grades at these locations proved generally low (<0.45%), yet it is at these locations that the REE minerals were discovered with the grades described above. Given the radioactive character of the REE minerals recognized in the Oka carbonatite, any concentration of these minerals is therefore expected to carry a signature that is primarily magnetic and radiometric, expressed as a Th anomaly and, to a lesser extent, a U anomaly. Overall, the integration of the high-resolution magnetic and radiometric data with the historical geological data on the Oka complex has contributed to the geometric and structural understanding of the intrusion. It provides not only a fairly detailed image of the magmatic structures but also strategic tools for identifying zones favourable to REE concentration. On the basis of the integrated interpretation, the technical team recommends a nine-hole reconnaissance diamond drilling program totaling approximately 4,460 metres in the North Ring (Figure 7), with the primary objective of intersecting significant REE concentrations and, secondarily, niobium. Figure 7. Location of the proposed drill holes on the magnetic tilt derivative (TDR) map. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11015/314676_7a62d7eae4ef89af_007full.jpg Bruno Dumais, President and Chief Operating Officer, commented, "For seventy years, Oka was drilled for niobium without anyone being able to see the whole system at once. This survey gives us that picture. The dykes that carry the niobium are the same structures the historical work tells us carry the rare earths, and we can now follow them at depth. This survey, together with the IGS metallurgical study and ongoing test work, will help better understand the REE potential of the property and develop safer processes regarding local environment." The Corporation's next steps include working with the local stakeholders towards obtaining an authorization for impact-causing exploration work (ATI) (autorisation pour travaux d'exploration à impacts) within the framework and guidelines established by the Quebec Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests (Ministère des Ressources naturelles et des Forêts). As such, the Corporation has mandated GHD Environnement to provide guidance and assure transparency of communication throughout this process. The technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved on behalf of the Corporation by Pierre-Jean Lafleur, P.Eng., a geological consultant and a qualified person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. About Nio Strategic Metals Nio Strategic Metals is an exploration and development company, with a focus on becoming a ferroniobium producer. The Corporation holds niobium and critical metals properties located in Oka and near Mont-Laurier in the Province of Québec. Nio is committed to developing those deposits in an environmentally responsible manner — supplying strategic materials the world needs while driving innovation, creating high-quality jobs and strengthening the local economy. For more information on the Corporation, please refer to the Corporation's public documents available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) or on the Corporation's website (https://niostratmet.com/) or contact: Bruno Dumais, President and Chief Operating Officer [email protected] 514-560-7623 Jean-Sebastien Blanchette, Chief Financial Officer [email protected] 917-399-0437 Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States of America. Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Statements, other than statements of historical facts, may be forward-looking statements. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of terminology such as "plans", "expects", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates", "believes" or variations of such words, or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved", the negative of these terms and similar terminology although not all forward-looking statements contain these terms and phrases. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, without limitation, statements regarding the interpretation of geophysical data and the geological model of the Oka carbonatite, the potential for REE and niobium mineralization, the recommended drilling program and its objectives, and the Corporation's planned next steps. Geophysical anomalies are not necessarily indicative of mineralization, and there can be no assurance that drilling will confirm the interpreted structures or intersect mineralization. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set out in Nio Strategic Metals' annual and/or quarterly management discussion and analysis and in other of its public disclosure documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, as well as all assumptions regarding the foregoing. Although Nio Strategic Metals believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frame or at all. Except where required by applicable law, Nio Strategic Metals disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/314676