The issue of lithium mining in Nigeria has raised significant concerns among advocates for a just transition to clean energy. A recent webinar, co-organized by the Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF), Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI), and Global Alliance for Incinerators Alternative (GAIA), shed light on the adverse effects of lithium mining on the communities in Nigeria and across the African continent.
One of the key issues highlighted during the webinar was the exclusion of affected communities from discussions about mineral extraction in their areas. Philip Jakpor, the Executive Director of RDI, expressed frustration over the lack of representation and benefits for these communities. He cautioned that the current trajectory of lithium mining in Nigeria and other African countries mirrors the infamous “oil curse” and may lead to a similar “lithium curse” if not addressed properly.
The inadequate regulation of solid mineral extraction in Africa was also a cause for concern, as it often results in exploitation and harm to the global south for the benefit of the global north. Kenza Elazkem, the North Africa Outreach Coordinator of GAIA Africa, pointed out the disparity in the importance of critical minerals like lithium, crucial for the global north but often extracted from the weakly regulated global south.
The webinar featured firsthand accounts from mining communities in Nasarawa, Nigeria, and Nwange, Zimbabwe, shedding light on the harsh realities of living near mining sites. The speakers emphasized the urgent need for sustainable renewable energy practices without further exploitation of natural resources.
Discussions also focused on promoting campaigns to reject products designed for waste and reduce the use of critical minerals. The speakers stressed the importance of ensuring that communities benefit from mineral extraction and are included in the governance structure to prevent further exploitation and environmental degradation.
The webinar included various speakers with expertise in the topic, including representatives from CODAF, GAIA, and other organizations advocating for a just transition and sustainable energy practices. The event aimed to raise awareness about the negative impact of lithium mining and the need for improved regulations and community involvement in mineral extraction.
The concerns raised during the webinar serve as a crucial reminder of the challenges facing the global south in the transition to clean energy. It is imperative for policymakers, industry leaders, and communities to collaborate to ensure that the shift towards renewable energy is truly just and sustainable for all parties involved. As the world seeks to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, it is vital to address the drawbacks of alternative energy sources and strive for a more equitable and environmentally conscious approach to energy transition.