Nickel vanadate (Ni3V2O8, NVO) nanoparticles (NPs) with a typical size of 30nm were prepared through a zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) intermediate precipitation method using water as a solvent. The intermediate and the NVO obtained after annealing the intermediate were systematically characterized using various techniques. When tested as an anode for Li-ion batteries (LIBs), the electrode displayed stable specific capacities of 940 and 305mAhg−1 at 1 and 5Ag−1, respectively, after 400 and 1000cycles. Additionally, a very high reversible capacity of 1024mAhg−1 was observed after 525cycles, during which high current densities of 2 and 0.5Ag−1 alternated every 100cycles. The long cycling rate capability with repeated sets, confirm the structural stability of the material, which was prepared through a facile and eco-friendly procedure.