– Nigeria has a longstanding tin mining industry, predominantly in Plateau State, which has significantly contributed to local economies.
– Despite the mineral’s presence underground, accessibility has declined, affecting production. Former miner Jugu Samuel reflects on the diminishing returns and increased challenges faced by local miners.
– Unlicensed artisanal miners dominate the region, extracting tin essential for electronics and renewable energy sectors, amidst increasing global demand due to the clean energy transition.
– Nigeria ranks as the world’s ninth-largest tin producer but faces revenue losses from unregulated mining activities, corruption, and weak governance.
– Many miners have left the industry due to resource scarcity, insecurity, and impacts of climate change, drastically reducing available supply. For instance, Esther Chattong reported a drop from 4000 kg to just 500 kg monthly.
– Mining in Barkin Ladi is often informal, using rudimentary techniques and exposing workers to hazardous conditions.
– The Nigerian government is investing into combating illegal mining operations but acknowledges the historical lack of regulation. Experts assert that the peak of tin production may have passed, given its non-renewable nature.
– There are significant untapped mineral resources in Nigeria, with a conservative valuation of $750 billion in mineral assets.
– The government is working on formalising artisanal mining and has launched initiatives to gather more accurate geological data for better resource management.
– Local suppliers express concern over supply shortages amidst rising competition and ongoing regional insecurity, creating uncertainties about the future of tin mining in Nigeria.
