Challenges Faced by Nigeria’s Metal Sector: Addressing Illegal Lithium Mining

The recent National Council on Mining and Mineral Resources Development (NCMMRD) meeting in Ilorin, Kwara State has brought to light the pressing issue of illegal lithium mining in Nigeria. Leaders in the solid minerals and metal sectors have come together to propose the implementation of a Presidential Executive Order to crack down on these illegal activities and minimize their environmental impact.

The proposal put forward at the meeting aims to address the problem of illegal mining through legislative amendments, while also seeking to enhance the value-added processing of minerals within the country. Key points of the proposal include the implementation of periodic royalty reviews, fostering synergy among multiple parties in the industry, and ensuring that local mining operations adhere to international best practices. These measures are crucial in order to regulate and strengthen the mineral sector in Nigeria.

One of the main challenges facing Nigeria is the prevalence of small-scale artisanal lithium mining. To tackle this issue, the government imposed a ban on the export of raw solid minerals by mining companies last year. This move was followed by a meeting between Minister of Solid Mineral Development, Dele Alake, and UK government leaders in November 2023. The discussions centred around the potential establishment of a local production chain with the aim of transforming the landscape of Nigeria’s mineral sector.

In summary, the metal sector in Nigeria is facing significant challenges with regards to illegal lithium mining. The proposed Presidential Executive Order, if implemented, will be a crucial step in curbing these activities and ensuring that the country’s mineral resources are managed in a sustainable and responsible manner.

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