First Atlantic Nickel Acquires Ophiolite-X Project Targeting White and Orange Geologic Hydrogen, Carbon Capture, and Critical Minerals in Western Newfoundland

Rhea-AI Summary

First Atlantic Nickel (OTCQB: FANCF) has agreed to acquire 100% of 18 mineral licences (500 claims; 12,500 ha / 125 km2) in the Bay of Islands Ophiolite Complex, western Newfoundland, branding the holding Ophiolite-X. The package targets multi‑commodity potential: natural and stimulated geologic hydrogen, CO₂ capture and storage, awaruite (Ni₃Fe) nickel‑iron‑cobalt, chromite, cobalt, copper and PGEs.

Peer‑reviewed studies cited estimate a theoretical BOIC CO₂ capacity of 5.1×10¹¹ tonnes and document active serpentinization with ultra‑basic springs discharging dissolved hydrogen and brucite-bearing rocks favorable for mineral carbonation.

Positive

• Acquisition of 12,500 ha (500 claims) in BOIC
• Targets both geologic hydrogen and CO₂ sequestration
• Peer‑reviewed estimate: 5.1×10¹¹ tonnes theoretical CO₂ capacity
• Documented active serpentinization with hydrogen‑bearing springs
• Exploration indicator: awaruite as nickel‑iron‑cobalt target

Negative

• None.

Key Figures

Mineral claims acquired 500 mineral claims Ophiolite-X project within Blow Me Down and Lewis Hills massifs

Project area 12,500 hectares (125 km2) Land position for Ophiolite-X in western Newfoundland

CO2 storage capacity 5.1 × 10^11 tonnes CO2 Theoretical capacity for entire Bay of Islands Ophiolite Complex

Global emissions comparator 36.8 Gt CO2 in 2022 Used to relate BOIC storage to over 13 years of emissions

Natural hydrogen cost $0.54/kg Estimated production cost for natural geological hydrogen

Stimulated hydrogen cost $0.92/kg Estimated production cost for stimulated geological hydrogen

Hydrogen venting rate 200 tonnes per year Hydrogen flow estimated at Albania’s Bulqiza analogue site

Brucite for CO2 capture 2.5 tonnes mineral per 1 tonne CO2 Mineral mass required for CO2 sequestration via brucite

Market Reality Check

$0.1300 Last Close

Volume Volume 189,106 vs 20-day average 243,397 (relative 0.78x) ahead of this acquisition news. normal

Technical Shares traded below the 200-day MA of 0.15 with price at 0.1356, well under the 0.4447 52-week high.

Peers on Argus

Peers show mixed moves: ARLYF down 16.48%, GBMCF down 5%, while MNXXF, GARWF, and SJRNF were flat. With FANCF down 1.24% pre-news and no peers in the momentum scanner, trading appeared more stock-specific than part of a broad sector swing.

Historical Context

Date	Event	Sentiment	Move	Catalyst
Dec 04	Drill program expansion	Positive	-2.1%	Expanded Phase 2X drilling at RPM Zone to larger 1.4 km by 850 m area.
Dec 02	Met results update	Positive	-3.2%	Reported highest DTR nickel grades and recoveries from RPM Zone drilling.
Nov 18	Conference participation	Positive	-3.0%	Presented awaruite and Pipestone XL at Benchmark Week critical minerals conference.
Nov 06	Conference presentation	Positive	+0.7%	Showcased smelter-free awaruite processing and chromium byproduct potential in Nashville.
Nov 03	Drilling results	Positive	-3.9%	Phase 2X drilling expanded RPM Zone width with long awaruite-bearing intercepts.

Pattern Detected

Recent operational and promotional updates with positive technical content have often been followed by modest share-price declines.

Recent Company History

Over the last six weeks, First Atlantic Nickel focused on advancing its Pipestone XL awaruite project through drilling, metallurgy, and conference visibility. News on expanded drill programs, higher DTR nickel grades, and broad mineralized intercepts at the RPM Zone on Nov 3–Dec 4 generally carried positive technical implications, yet 24-hour price reactions were negative in four of five cases. Today’s acquisition of the Ophiolite-X project adds a new hydrogen and carbon‑capture‑themed land package on top of that trajectory.

Market Pulse Summary

This announcement adds a large, multi‑commodity Ophiolite-X land package in the Bay of Islands Ophiolite Complex, linking First Atlantic Nickel to themes of geologic hydrogen, carbon capture and critical minerals. Historical news flow has centered on awaruite drilling and metallurgy, so this marks a broader geological platform. Investors may focus on how the company prioritizes capital between Pipestone XL and Ophiolite‑X, and on measurable milestones such as sampling, drilling, and third‑party research updates tied to the BOIC’s reported 5.1 × 10^11‑tonne CO₂ storage capacity.

Key Terms

ophiolite technical

"The BOIC comprises four large-scale ophiolite massifs, Table Mountain..."

An ophiolite is a section of the Earth’s ocean crust and upper mantle that has been pushed up onto land, like finding a slice of seafloor on a continent. For investors, ophiolites matter because they often concentrate valuable metals and minerals—such as nickel, copper, platinum-group elements and chromite—making them prime targets for mining exploration and shaping the potential value, costs and environmental risks of resource projects.

serpentinization medical

"Active serpentinization within the BOIC produces dissolved hydrogen (H₂)..."

Serpentinization is a natural chemical reaction where water alters certain underground rocks (rich in iron and magnesium), turning them into soft, greenish minerals called serpentines while releasing heat, hydrogen gas and sometimes changing the rock’s shape. For investors, it matters because the process can create mineral deposits, potential sources of clean hydrogen, influence the stability of ground for construction or drilling, and affect prospects for geothermal energy or carbon storage — like a slow underground factory reshaping local resources and risks.

brucite technical

"During serpentinization, brucite (Mg(OH)₂), a highly reactive magnesium hydroxide..."

Brucite is a naturally occurring mineral made of magnesium hydroxide that looks like chalky, white slabs or flakes. Investors watch it because it is a raw material for flame retardants, fillers, and certain environmental cleanup and magnesium products—think of it like a basic building block that feeds manufacturing chains; changes in its supply, cost, or demand can affect companies that rely on those materials and therefore influence related stock prices.

ultramafic technical

"These ultramafic rocks host exceptional carbon sequestration capacity..."

Ultramafic describes a class of very dark, dense igneous rocks that are low in silica and high in iron and magnesium; think of them as the “mineral-rich” end of the rock spectrum. They matter to investors because these rocks are common hosts for economically important metals—such as nickel, chromium, cobalt and some platinum-group elements—so finding ultramafic geology can point to potential mining targets, development costs and environmental considerations.

geologic hydrogen technical

"Geologic (or "white") hydrogen refers to naturally occurring molecular hydrogen..."

Natural hydrogen found trapped or generated in the Earth’s crust, produced by geological reactions rather than manufactured by humans. Like finding natural gas or oil in a rock pocket, it can be tapped, stored and sold as a low‑carbon fuel or industrial feedstock, so its discovery and ease of extraction can change supply expectations, development costs and long‑term value for energy investors. Environmental, technical and regulatory factors affect its commercial potential.

stimulated geological hydrogen technical

"Orange hydrogen (also termed "stimulated geological hydrogen") is an engineering approach..."

Stimulated geological hydrogen is hydrogen gas that is generated or released from underground rocks and minerals through natural chemical reactions that are accelerated by human actions, such as injecting fluids, applying pressure, or heating the subsurface. For investors, it represents a potential new source of low‑carbon fuel and industrial feedstock—like drilling a new well to tap a hidden spring—but it also brings exploration, engineering, cost and environmental risks tied to proving and extracting a commercially viable resource.

abiotic hydrogen technical

"conditions and pH values up to 12.3 are conducive to ongoing abiotic natural hydrogen..."

Hydrogen that forms naturally through geology and chemistry rather than from living organisms or industrial processes, produced when water reacts with certain rocks or minerals deep underground. For investors, abiotic hydrogen represents a potential native supply of low-emission fuel or feedstock—like finding a naturally occurring well of gas—so its presence can influence future energy resources, exploration prospects, cost forecasts and the valuation of projects tied to hydrogen production.

carbon sequestration technical

"exceptional targets for hydrogen generation, carbon sequestration, and nickel..."

The long-term capture and storage of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere or industrial sources, either by natural systems (forests, soils, wetlands) or by engineered methods (underground injection, chemical filters). It matters to investors because carbon sequestration can create new revenue streams, reduce companies' regulatory and reputational risks related to emissions, and require sizable capital investment—think of it as buying insurance or building infrastructure to lower a business’s future climate-related costs and liabilities.

AI-generated analysis. Not financial advice.

GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR, Newfoundland and Labrador, Dec. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- First Atlantic Nickel Corp. (TSXV: FAN) (OTCQB: FANCF) (FSE: P21) ("First Atlantic" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has entered into agreements to acquire a 100% interest in 18 mineral licenses comprising 500 mineral claims (covering 12,500 hectares or 125 km²) within the Blow Me Down and Lewis Hills massifs in the Bay of Islands Ophiolite Complex (“BOIC”) in western Newfoundland. The Company has branded this strategic land position as the "Ophiolite-X" project, recognizing its multi-commodity potential spanning geologic (natural and stimulated) hydrogen, carbon capture and storage, awaruite nickel-iron-cobalt alloy mineralization, chromite, cobalt, copper, and platinum group elements (“PGEs”). Peer-reviewed research by Memorial University has calculated theoretical CO₂ storage capacity for the entire BOIC equivalent to more than 13 years of global emissions¹ (source link), while natural springs within the complex discharge dissolved hydrogen generated through active serpentinization² (source link). This process is of such scientific significance that NASA researchers have identified the Tablelands massif in the BOIC as a Mars analogue site for studying serpentinizing environments³.

The BOIC comprises four large-scale ophiolite massifs, Table Mountain (Tablelands), North Arm Mountain, Blow Me Down Mountain, and Lewis Hills, representing one of the world's best-preserved and most complete ophiolite sequences. A recent study with funding from the Ministère de l'Économie, de l'Innovation et de l'Énergie (MEIE) of Quebec, evaluating natural hydrogen potential across Quebec (Séjourné et al., 2024), noted that the "potential for natural hydrogen in southern Quebec is not necessarily limited to these areas. Key areas of interest include: 1) ophiolite complexes, which are correlative with the Bay of Islands complex in Newfoundland where Szponar et al. (2013) sampled strongly alkaline and highly reducing water sources containing dissolved hydrogen⁴."

In the Stanford University study Techno-economic analysis of natural and stimulated geological hydrogen (Mathur et al., 2024⁵), researchers concluded that "While both natural and stimulated geological hydrogen present viable options for contributing to a sustainable energy future, practical considerations such as resource availability, production control, and scalability make SGH a particularly attractive option for long-term hydrogen production, especially when co-located with demand centers." The study estimates production costs of approximately $0.54/kg for natural geological hydrogen and $0.92/kg for stimulated geological hydrogen, both below the U.S. Department of Energy's $1/kg target⁶.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

1. Optimal Geological Hydrogen Source Rock: A 2024 study, with funding from the Government of Quebec, evaluating 27 potential natural hydrogen source rocks, identified ophiolite complexes as the first key area of interest for geologic hydrogen exploration, with the BOIC as the reference analogue. Documented occurrences include "strongly alkaline and highly reducing water sources containing dissolved hydrogen⁷", positioning the BOIC as the type locality for hydrogen-prospective ophiolites in eastern Canada.
   
2. Active Geologic Hydrogen Generation: Active serpentinization within the BOIC produces dissolved hydrogen (H₂) in ultrabasic springs, where highly reducing conditions and pH values up to 12.3 are conducive to ongoing abiotic natural hydrogen production⁸.
3. Bulqiza Chromite Mine Hydrogen Discovery Analogue: Historic podiform chromite mineralization at Blow Me Down (32-40% Cr₂O₃, mined in 1918)⁹ and Springers Hill (up to 53% Cr₂O₃ in harzburgite)¹⁰ occur within serpentinized dunite-harzburgite sequences similar to Albania's Bulqiza mine in the Mirdita Ophiolite, where chromite (33-54% Cr₂O₃) is hosted in serpentinized harzburgite-dunite. A 2024 Science publication documented hydrogen with a purity of 84% venting at an estimated 200 tonnes per year from Bulqiza, one of the largest flows ever recorded, and noted that "places with similar geology should be good targets for finding other natural sources of hydrogen¹¹."
4. Samail Ophiolite Stimulated Hydrogen Analogue: The BOIC shares similar geological characteristics with Oman's Samail Ophiolite, including serpentinized peridotite sequences, brucite-bearing alteration assemblages and hyperalkaline, hydrogen-producing springs. In 2023, Eden GeoPower signed the world's first agreement with Oman's Ministry of Energy and Minerals to pilot stimulated geological hydrogen production in the Samail Ophiolite, positioning ophiolite complexes as optimal targets for both natural hydrogen exploration and stimulated production.
5. CO₂ Capture Industrialization Potential: Memorial University researchers conclude that, by "injecting CO₂-enriched waters into the subsurface, this process could likely be industrialized and require little energy input beyond drilling and pumping waters into the subsurface¹²."
6. Massive Carbon Capture Capacity: Research by Memorial University on the Project calculated a theoretical "total CO₂ storage capacity of 5.1 × 10¹¹ tonnes for the entire BOIC¹¹", equivalent to more than 13 years of global CO₂ emissions (based on 2022 global emissions of 36.8 Gt) and over 700 times Canada's annual emissions. Even 1% carbonation could account for more than 7 years of Canada's national CO₂ output¹³.
7. Most Efficient Carbon Capture Mineral: Brucite formed during serpentinization exhibits the highest CO₂ reactivity among ultramafic alteration products, requiring only ~2.5 tonnes of mineral to sequester 1 tonne of CO₂, compared with ~4 tonnes of forsterite, ~6 tonnes of serpentine, and >10 tonnes of basaltic glass. This positions brucite-bearing serpentinites as optimal targets for carbon capture operations¹⁴.
8. Awaruite (Ni₃Fe) Perspective Environment: Hydrogen is a required precursor for the formation of awaruite nickel (Ni₃Fe), a natural nickel alloy that commonly contains cobalt. The highly reducing conditions created by serpentinization generate the hydrogen needed for awaruite to form, providing direct mineralogical evidence of hydrogen-rich conditions^{15 16}.

Please call 844-592-6337 or email rob@fanickel.com to connect with Rob Guzman, First Atlantic Nickel's Investor Relations, for questions or more information.

Figure 01: Images of natural springs containing dissolved hydrogen from Tablelands Ophiolite, BOIC (Modified from Szponar et al. 2012) ¹⁷.

Figure 02: Hydrogen (H2) concentration in the 58 investigated 58 rock samples from various different ultramafic systems (modified from Giuseppe et al., 2024)¹⁸.

ACADEMIC RESEARCH DOCUMENTS CARBON CAPTURE CAPACITY, GEOLOGIC HYDROGEN PRESENCE, AND NEW GEOLOGICAL INTERPRETATIONS

The Company recently staked claims in the BOIC area following the publication of "Ultramafic rocks in the Bay of Islands Ophiolite complex, Newfoundland Appalachians" in LITHOS by researchers from the University of Ottawa and Geological Survey of Canada (Hattori et al., 2025). The research documents that the Blow Me Down Mountain massif contains an anomalously thick dunite layer, up to 5 km, separating the gabbroic unit from harzburgitic mantle tectonites. This thickness is significantly greater than in typical ophiolite sequences and indicates exceptional targets for hydrogen generation, carbon sequestration, and nickel, chromium and PGE mineralization.

Peer-reviewed research conducted on the Blow Me Down massif by Memorial University, with funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and Nalcor Energy (Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro), demonstrated that these ultramafic rocks host exceptional carbon sequestration capacity while simultaneously generating natural hydrogen through active serpentinization. During serpentinization, brucite (Mg(OH)₂), a highly reactive magnesium hydroxide mineral, forms and represents the most efficient mineral for CO₂ capture, requiring only ~2.5 tonnes of mineral to sequester 1 tonne of CO₂. Critically, iron-bearing brucite (Fe-brucite) formed during serpentinization can undergo later-stage oxidation to generate molecular hydrogen (H₂), creating a dual-function mineral system capable of both carbon capture and hydrogen production¹⁹.

Figure 03: Carbon Sequestration Experiment from First Atlantic’s Newly Acquired Ophiolite-X Property (Blow Me Down Massif); Photographs of white films on calcium hydroxide rich waters after the 4 hours, ultra-basic carbon sequestration experiments. (A) Without the addition of crushed peridotite and (B) with the addition of crushed peridotite.²⁰

BAY OF ISLANDS OPHIOLITE: ACTIVE SERPENTINIZATION AND ABIOTIC HYDROGEN GENERATION

The Tablelands massif within the BOIC has been the subject of extensive scientific research documenting active serpentinization and hydrogen generation. The site has been designated as a Mars analogue by researchers for studying present-day serpentinization, contributing to the scientific goals of the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL), the ExoMars Rover mission, and the Mars Exploration Program Analysis Group (MEPAG)²¹.

Research published by Szponar et al. (2013) characterized ultrabasic, reducing springs at the Tablelands, reporting highly alkaline conditions with pH values up to 12.3 and highly reducing redox potentials. These geochemical signatures are characteristic of "Type II" waters associated with active serpentinization at depth and indicate an environment where hydrogen is actively generated through water-rock reactions.

The Tablelands springs represent surface expressions of a deeper serpentinization system, providing direct evidence that hydrogen-generating reactions are ongoing within the BOIC. This active system offers a natural laboratory for understanding hydrogen generation, migration and potential accumulation in ophiolite-hosted settings.

Figure 04: Photograph of Winterhouse ultra-basic pool. (B) Schematic planar and cross-sectional sketches depicting the various water inputs into the WHC2 pool — A and B are locations of ultra-basic reducing water discharging into the bottom of the pool, C is the location of overland flow that trickles into WHC2. (modified from Morrill, 2014)²²

WHITE VERSUS ORANGE HYDROGEN: GEOLOGIC HYDROGEN EXPLAINED

Orange hydrogen (also termed "stimulated geological hydrogen") is an engineering approach in which fluids are injected into Fe(II)-rich rock formations to accelerate natural hydrogen-generating reactions.

Geologic (or "white") hydrogen refers to naturally occurring molecular hydrogen generated through subsurface geological processes, primarily the oxidation of iron-bearing minerals during serpentinization of ultramafic rocks. Unlike hydrogen produced from fossil fuels (grey/blue) or electrolysis (green), geologic hydrogen forms continuously through water-rock reactions and has a minimal carbon footprint.

The best targets for stimulated hydrogen production are ultramafic rocks such as peridotites, which can produce 2 - 4 kg hydrogen per cubic meter of rock, up to four orders of magnitude more hydrogen than mafic rocks such as basalts²³ (Templeton et al., 2024). The BOIC, with its extensive serpentinized peridotite sequences, brucite-bearing alteration assemblages and documented hydrogen-producing springs, represents an optimal geological setting for both natural hydrogen exploration and potential future stimulated production.

Figure 05: Schematic block diagram highlights the different types of hydrogen generated by natural processes and as industrial byproducts.²⁴

Figure 06: The geological hydrogen value chain comprising upstream, midstream and downstream components (from Mathur et al. 2024).²⁵

BRUCITE’S ROLE IN CARBON CAPTURE AND HYDROGEN GENERATION

Recent research published in Carbon Capture Science & Technology (Leila et al., 2025) highlights that brucite-bearing ultramafic lithologies represent optimal geological "sweet spots" for simultaneous CO₂ mineralization and H₂ production. Among ultramafic alteration products, brucite exhibits the highest CO₂ reactivity, requiring only approximately 2.5 tonnes of mineral to sequester 1 tonne of CO₂ (Kelemen et al., 2020)²⁶.

Figure 07: Weight of reacted minerals required for sequestering 1 ton of CO2 via mineral trapping at same reaction conditions²⁷ (data from Kelemen et al., 2020; Oelkers et al., 2008).

The serpentinization process at the BOIC produces brucite, serpentine and magnetite as primary alteration products. Peer-reviewed research by Memorial University (Gill et al., 2024) calculated a theoretical "total CO₂ storage capacity of 5.1 × 10¹¹ tonnes for the entire BOIC," a figure representing more than 13 years of total global CO₂ emissions based on 2022 output of 36.8 billion tonnes, and over 700 times Canada's annual emissions of approximately 670 million tonnes²⁸.

The study notes that brucite exhibits the highest CO₂ conversion efficiency among ultramafic minerals: brucite converts 0.63 metric tonnes of CO₂ per tonne of mineral (highest reactivity), olivine converts 0.51 metric tonnes of CO₂ per tonne of mineral, and serpentine/pyroxene converts 0.41 metric tonnes of CO₂ per tonne of mineral.

Laboratory experiments conducted by Memorial University on Blow Me Down peridotite demonstrated carbonation flux rates of −1.40 × 10⁻³ mol/m²min under controlled conditions, while field measurements at the Tablelands springs recorded flux rates of 1.9 × 10⁻⁵ mol/m²min-confirming that natural carbonation is actively occurring within the complex. The researchers conclude that the process is "kinetically favourable even at ambient conditions" and could be industrialized with "little energy input beyond drilling and pumping waters into the subsurface²⁹."

The 408 km² surface exposure of the BOIC, extending to an estimated depth of 1 km (408 km³ rock volume, comprising approximately 1.3 × 10¹² tonnes of ultramafic material), provides an exceptional target for both research and potential future carbon sequestration operations.

AWARUITE: HYDROGEN AS A REQUIRED PRECURSOR FOR NICKEL-IRON ALLOY FORMATION

Awaruite (Ni₃Fe) is a naturally occurring nickel-iron alloy that forms under extremely reducing conditions during serpentinization, conditions that require hydrogen. Research by Sleep et al. (2004) established that awaruite formation requires hydrogen partial pressures exceeding 50 bars at low temperatures, increasing to more than 320 bars at 200°C. The presence of awaruite in serpentinized ultramafic rocks therefore provides direct mineralogical evidence of hydrogen-rich conditions during alteration.³⁰

As noted by Sleep et al. (2004): "Metamorphic hydration and oxidation of ultramafic rocks produces serpentinites, composed of serpentine group minerals and varying amounts of brucite, magnetite, and/or FeNi alloys. These minerals buffer metamorphic fluids to extremely reducing conditions that are capable of producing hydrogen gas. Awaruite, FeNi₃, forms early in this process when the serpentinite minerals are Fe-rich." Awaruite could not form without the presence of abundant hydrogen, making it an exploration indicator for hydrogen-prospective serpentinite systems.

The highly reducing conditions documented at the Tablelands are consistent with the geochemical environment required for awaruite formation, indicating that awaruite mineralization may be present within the serpentinized portions of the BOIC.

First Atlantic's exploration programs will include systematic sampling to evaluate awaruite occurrence and distribution within the Ophiolite-X project area, with awaruite serving as both a potential nickel-iron resource and an indicator of hydrogen generation potential.

REGIONAL GEOLOGY AND PROJECT SETTING

The BOIC represents an exceptionally well-preserved section of Ordovician oceanic lithosphere that was obducted onto the Laurentian continental margin during the Taconic orogeny, approximately 470 million years ago. The complex comprises four major massifs arranged from north to south: Table Mountain (Tablelands), North Arm Mountain, Blow Me Down Mountain, and Lewis Hills.

Each massif displays a near-complete ophiolite stratigraphy, including basal tectonized harzburgite overlain by cumulate ultramafic rocks (dunite, wehrlite, pyroxenite), layered gabbros, sheeted dikes, and pillow basalts. The ultramafic sections have undergone variable degrees of serpentinization, with the Tablelands being particularly notable for hosting the hyperalkaline springs that document ongoing water-rock reactions.

The Blow Me Down Massif is distinguished by an anomalously thick dunite layer, up to 5 km, in the upper part of the mantle section, significantly thicker than in typical ophiolite sequences³¹. This dunite-rich section provides exceptional targets for both hydrogen generation (through ongoing serpentinization) and carbon sequestration (through carbonation of olivine and serpentine minerals).

The Lewis Hills Massif, the southernmost and structurally highest unit, exposes deep crustal and upper mantle sections, including significant chromitite occurrences. The massif has been the subject of historical chromite exploration and production, with the Springers Hill prospect representing the most advanced occurrence.

HISTORIC CHROMITE OCCURRENCES: CHROMITE-HYDROGEN ASSOCIATION

Documented mineral occurrences, recorded in the Newfoundland and Labrador Geological Survey's Mineral Occurrence Database System (MODS), demonstrate the ultramafic character and mineral prospectivity of the acquired ground, including historic chromite occurrences comparable to those associated with recent major hydrogen discoveries.

The Blow Me Down Massif hosts two chromite occurrences: Blow Me Down Chromite #1³² (historically mined, 32.2% Cr₂O₃) and Blow Me Down Chromite #2³³ (40% Cr₂O₃). The chromite occurs as disseminated to massive lenses, pods, and stringers within serpentinized dunite.

The Lewis Hills Massif hosts the Springers Hill chromite prospect comprising three occurrences: Springers Hill Main Showing (developed prospect that had produced a 43% Cr₂O₃ Concentrate) ³⁴, Springers Hill NE³⁵, and Springers Hill NW³⁶. Microprobe analysis of spinels from harzburgite at Springers Hill returned values of 51.73–53.16% Cr₂O₃, with samples containing up to 85% chromite by volume. The main mineralized zone extends over 700 m of strike length within dunite dykelets hosted by mantle tectonite harzburgite.

These podiform chromite occurrences share striking geological similarities with the Bulqiza chromite mine in Albania, one of the world's largest podiform chromite deposits within the Jurassic Mirdita Ophiolite. At Bulqiza, chromite grades range from 33-54% Cr₂O₃ within a >4 km thick sequence of serpentinized harzburgite overlain by dunite, directly comparable to the harzburgite-dunite assemblages hosting chromite at both Blow Me Down and Springers Hill. In February 2024, researchers published findings in Science documenting natural hydrogen outgassing from the Bulqiza mine at 84% purity by volume, with a minimum of 200 tonnes H₂ vented annually,representing one of the largest recorded hydrogen flow rates globally³⁷. The study concluded that "certain ophiolites may host economically useful accumulations of H₂ gas," highlighting the association between ophiolite-hosted chromite mineralization and hydrogen-generating systems.

The presence of similar chromite-bearing harzburgite-dunite assemblages within the BOIC, combined with documented active serpentinization and hydrogen-bearing hyperalkaline springs at the Tablelands, suggests analogous hydrogen-generation potential within First Atlantic's Ophiolite-X project area.

Summary of the Agreements

The Company entered into three separate agreements with arm’s length parties on December 3 and 4, 2025, to strategically expand its mineral holdings within the BOIC (collectively, the “Agreements”).

Pursuant to the first Agreement, the Company will acquire a 100% undivided interest in two mining licenses comprising 26 mineral claims. Consideration is the issuance of 260,000 common shares of the Company. The claims are subject to a 2.5% net smelter returns royalty (“NSR”) in favour of arm’s-length royalty holders, of which the Company may repurchase up to 1.5% for $1,000,000 at any time prior to commercial production, leaving a 1.0% NSR thereafter. Pursuant to the second Agreement, the Company will acquire a 100% undivided interest in thirteen mining licenses comprising 432 mineral claims. Consideration is the issuance of an aggregate of 3,800,000 common shares of the Company. The claims are subject to a 2.0% NSR, of which the Company may repurchase 1.0% for $1,000,000 prior to commercial production, leaving a 1.0% NSR thereafter. Pursuant to the third Agreement, the Company will acquire a 100% undivided interest in three mining licenses comprising 42 mineral claims. Consideration is the issuance of an aggregate of 650,000 common shares of the Company. The claims are subject to a 2.0% NSR, of which the Company may repurchase 1.0% for $1,000,000 prior to commercial production, leaving a 1.0% NSR thereafter. Closing of each Agreement is subject to customary conditions, including receipt of all required regulatory approvals, including TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV”) acceptance. All shares issued in connection with the Agreements will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance, in accordance with Canadian securities laws and TSXV policies. There were no finder’s fees payable in connection with the Agreements.

Investor Information

The Company's common shares trade on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "FAN", the American OTCQB Exchange under the symbol "FANCF" and on several German exchanges, including Frankfurt and Tradegate, under the symbol "P21".

Investors can get updates about First Atlantic by signing up to receive news via email and SMS text at www.fanickel.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

First Atlantic Investor Relations

Robert Guzman

Tel: +1 844 592 6337

rob@fanickel.com

Disclosure

Adrian Smith, P.Geo., a director and the Chief Executive Officer of the Company is a qualified person as defined by NI 43-101. The qualified person is a member in good standing of the Professional Engineers and Geoscientists Newfoundland and Labrador (PEGNL) and is a registered professional geoscientist (P.Geo.). Mr. Smith has reviewed and approved the technical information disclosed herein.

The Company has not independently verified the historic samples reported in this release but has received data from the previous property owners and from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s online database.

ABOUT FIRST ATLANTIC NICKEL CORP.

First Atlantic Nickel Corp. (TSXV: FAN) (OTCQB: FANCF) (FSE: P21) is a critical mineral exploration company in Newfoundland & Labrador developing the Pipestone XL Nickel Alloy Project. The project spans the entire 30-kilometer Pipestone Ophiolite Complex, where multiple zones, including RPM, Super Gulp, Atlantic Lake, and Chrome Pond, contain awaruite (Ni₃Fe), a naturally occurring magnetic nickel-iron-cobalt alloy of approximately ~75% nickel with no-sulfur and no-sulfides, along with secondary chromium mineralization. Awaruite's sulfur-free composition removes acid mine drainage (AMD) risks, while its unique magnetic properties enable processing through magnetic separation, eliminating the electricity requirements, emissions, and environmental impacts of conventional smelting, roasting, or high pressure acid leaching while reducing dependence on overseas nickel processing infrastructure.

The U.S. Geological Survey recognized awaruite's strategic importance in its 2012 Annual Report on Nickel, noting that these deposits may help alleviate prolonged nickel concentrate shortages since the natural alloy is much easier to concentrate than typical nickel sulfides³⁸. The Pipestone XL Nickel Alloy Project is located near existing infrastructure with year-round road access and proximity to hydroelectric power. These features provide favorable logistics for exploration and future development, strengthening First Atlantic’s role to establish a secure and reliable source of North American nickel production for the stainless steel, electric vehicle, aerospace, and defense industries. This mission gained importance when the US added nickel to its critical minerals list in 2022³⁹, recognizing it as a non-fuel mineral essential to economic and national security with a supply chain vulnerable to disruption.

Forward-looking statements:

This news release may include “forward-looking information” under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on a number of estimates and/or assumptions made by, and information currently available to, the Company that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information.

Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements regarding: the entering into and anticipated closing of the three asset purchase agreements; the Company’s ability to satisfy the conditions to closing, including receipt of TSXV acceptance and any other required regulatory approvals; the timing of closing the Agreements; the issuance of common shares as consideration and the timing thereof; the Company’s ability and intention to exercise any NSR buy-back rights on the terms described or at all; the anticipated strategic and exploration benefits of acquiring and consolidating the BOIC claims; the Company’s planned exploration activities on the Ophiolite-X project and BOIC claims, including future work programs, budgets, timing and scope; the interpretation of geological, geochemical and geophysical data; the potential for natural and stimulated geological hydrogen, carbon capture and storage, and associated nickel, chromium and PGE mineralization within the BOIC; and the Company’s objectives, strategies and future plans with respect to the acquired mineral licenses and its projects generally

Forward-looking information is based on, among other things, assumptions regarding: the Company’s ability to obtain all required approvals in a timely manner; the ability of the parties to the Agreements to satisfy closing conditions; the accuracy of the underlying title and claim information received from vendors and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador; the Company’s ability to maintain the mineral licenses and claims in good standing; the Company’s ability to access the properties and carry out exploration as currently planned; the availability, performance and cost of personnel, services, equipment and supplies; the timing of, and ability to obtain, necessary permits and regulatory authorizations; the applicability of published academic and technical research to the Company’s properties; prevailing and future prices and demand for nickel and other commodities that may be associated with geological hydrogen and carbon capture concepts; general business, economic and financial market conditions; and the Company’s ability to obtain additional financing on reasonable terms to fund exploration, studies and any potential NSR buy-backs..

Readers are cautioned that such forward-looking information is neither promises nor guarantees and is subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, risks related to the inability to obtain TSXV acceptance or other required approvals; delays in closing or failure to close one or more of the agreements; risks relating to title, maintenance or renewal of mineral claims and licenses; exploration and development risks; environmental and permitting risks; changes in market conditions and metal prices; uncertain and volatile equity and capital markets; lack of available capital; operating risks; accidents; labour issues; and other risks in the mining industry. Additional factors and risks are discussed in the Company’s disclosure documents available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected.

The Company is presently an exploration stage company. Exploration is highly speculative in nature, involves many risks, requires substantial expenditures, and may not result in the discovery of mineral deposits that can be mined profitably. Furthermore, the Company currently has no mineral reserves on any of its properties. As a result, there can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information, except as required by applicable securities laws.

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 release.

^{_______________________}

¹ Evaluation of carbon dioxide sequestration via interaction with peridotite and peridotite-hosted groundwaters: an experimental case study with Bay of Islands Ophiolite rocks, western Newfoundland, Canada
² Geochemistry of a continental site of serpentinization, the Tablelands Ophiolite, Gros Morne National Park: A Mars analogue
³ The Tablelands Ophiolite of Newfoundland: A Mars analogue site of present-day serpentinization
⁴ Large-Scale Screening for Natural Hydrogen: a Quebec’s Perspective
⁵ Techno-economic analysis of natural and stimulated geological hydrogen
⁶ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0360319925038728
⁷ Large-Scale Screening for Natural Hydrogen: a Quebec’s Perspective
⁸ Evaluation of carbon dioxide sequestration via interaction with peridotite and peridotite-hosted groundwaters
⁹ https://gis.gov.nl.ca/mods/ModsCard.asp?NMINOString?temp=n&NMINOString=012G/01/Cr%20002
¹⁰ https://gis.geosurv.gov.nl.ca/mods/ModsCard.asp?NMINOString=012B%2F16%2FCr+002
¹¹ A deep reservoir for hydrogen drives intense degassing in the Bulqizë ophiolite
¹² https://cdnsciencepub.com/doi/full/10.1139/cjes-2022-0116
¹³ https://cdnsciencepub.com/doi/full/10.1139/cjes-2022-0116
¹⁴ Concomitant generation of hydrogen during carbon dioxide storage in ultramafic massifs- state of the art with implications to decarbonization strategies
¹⁵ H2-rich fluids from serpentinization: Geochemical and biotic implications
¹⁶ https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.0405289101
¹⁷ Geochemistry of a continental site of serpentinization, the Tablelands Ophiolite, Gros Morne National Park: A Mars analogue
¹⁸ Natural hydrogen extracted from ophiolitic rocks: A first dataset
¹⁹ Concomitant generation of hydrogen during carbon dioxide storage in ultramafic massifs- state of the art with implications to decarbonization strategies
²⁰ Evaluation of carbon dioxide sequestration via interaction with peridotite and peridotite-hosted groundwaters: an experimental case study with Bay of Islands Ophiolite rocks, western Newfoundland, Canada
²¹ The Tablelands Ophiolite of Newfoundland: A Mars analogue site of present-day serpentinization
²² https://sci-hub.se/10.3389/fmicb.2014.00613
²³ Low-temperature hydrogen production and consumption in partially-hydrated peridotites in Oman: implications for stimulated geological hydrogen production
²⁴ Orange hydrogen is the new green
²⁵ Techno-economic analysis of natural and stimulated geological hydrogen
²⁶ Evaluation of carbon dioxide sequestration via interaction with peridotite and peridotite-hosted groundwaters: an experimental case study with Bay of Islands Ophiolite rocks, western Newfoundland, Canada
²⁷ Concomitant generation of hydrogen during carbon dioxide storage in ultramafic massifs- state of the art with implications to decarbonization strategies
²⁸ Evaluation of carbon dioxide sequestration via interaction with peridotite and peridotite-hosted groundwaters: an experimental case study with Bay of Islands Ophiolite rocks, western Newfoundland, Canada
²⁹ https://cdnsciencepub.com/doi/10.1139/cjes-2022-0116
³⁰ H2-rich fluids from serpentinization: Geochemical and biotic implications
³¹ Ultramafic rocks in the Bay of Islands Ophiolite complex, Newfoundland Appalachians
³² https://gis.gov.nl.ca/mods/ModsCard.asp?NMINOString?temp=n&NMINOString=012G/01/Cr%20001 
³³ https://gis.gov.nl.ca/mods/ModsCard.asp?NMINOString?temp=n&NMINOString=012G/01/Cr%20002 
³⁴ https://gis.geosurv.gov.nl.ca/mods/ModsCard.asp?NMINOString=012B%2F16%2FCr+002 
³⁵ https://gis.geosurv.gov.nl.ca/mods/ModsCard.asp?NMINOString=012B%2F16%2FCr+003 
³⁶ https://gis.geosurv.gov.nl.ca/mods/ModsCard.asp?NMINOString=012B%2F16%2FCr+004 
³⁷ A deep reservoir for hydrogen drives intense degassing in the Bulqizë ophiolite
³⁸ https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/mineral-pubs/nickel/mcs-2012-nicke.pdf 
³⁹ https://www.usgs.gov/news/national-news-release/us-geological-survey-releases-2022-list-critical-minerals 

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f076ef78-bbe5-4ba1-b416-54eb62f98218
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7a97aa70-0fae-4acf-bf07-a9857233333f
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/945d556f-678a-411f-99ed-c7ece40c16c4
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6e778473-0184-4d86-9557-7a18ca3d13da
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d01ee86c-1701-417a-9fed-c23dc9db5b17
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d48effe0-d587-41e2-81f8-5777438651d4
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/757b0ab6-b16d-4e1a-a51b-3ed36adda16c

FAQ

What did First Atlantic Nickel announce on December 11, 2025 about Ophiolite-X (FANCF)?

The company agreed to acquire 100% of 18 licences (500 claims; 12,500 ha) in the Bay of Islands Ophiolite Complex for the Ophiolite‑X project.

How much CO₂ storage capacity is cited for the BOIC in First Atlantic Nickel's announcement (FANCF)?

Peer‑reviewed research cited a theoretical total CO₂ storage capacity of 5.1×10¹¹ tonnes for the BOIC.

Does the Ophiolite‑X project target geologic hydrogen and how is it evidenced for FANCF?

Yes; the announcement cites active serpentinization and ultra‑basic springs that discharge dissolved hydrogen as direct evidence of natural geologic hydrogen.

What critical minerals does First Atlantic Nickel plan to explore at Ophiolite‑X (FANCF)?

The project targets awaruite (Ni₃Fe) nickel‑iron‑cobalt, chromite, cobalt, copper and platinum group elements.

What role does brucite play in First Atlantic Nickel's carbon capture case (FANCF)?

Brucite is highlighted as a highly reactive mineral for CO₂ mineralization, requiring about 2.5 tonnes of mineral to sequester 1 tonne CO₂.

How might Ophiolite‑X support stimulated geological hydrogen (orange hydrogen) activities for FANCF?

The BOIC's serpentinized ultramafic rocks are described as favourable targets for stimulated geological hydrogen due to their brucite‑bearing, highly reducing conditions.