Nigeria’s Efforts to Regulate Illegal Lithium Mining in the Metal Sector
Representatives of key stakeholders in Nigeria’s solid minerals and metal sectors recently convened to address the issue of illegal lithium mining within the country. The fifth National Council on Mining and Mineral Resources Development (NCMMRD) meeting in Ilorin, Kwara State saw the proposition of implementing a Presidential Executive Order aimed at curbing illegal mining activities and mitigating their environmental impact.
The proposed measures aspire to dissuade illegal mining by enacting legislative amendments and fostering value-added processing within Nigeria. Furthermore, it underscores the necessity for periodic royalty reviews and the cultivation of collaborative efforts among various industry stakeholders. Regulators have also voiced their commitment to ensuring local mining operations adhere to international best practices.
Presently, Nigeria faces a proliferation of small-scale artisanal lithium mining, prompting the government to impose a ban on the export of raw solid minerals by mining companies last year. In addition, Minister of Solid Mineral Development, Dele Alake, engaged with UK government leaders in November 2023 to explore the potential establishment of a local production chain that could significantly transform Nigeria’s mineral sector.
The regulation of illegal lithium mining within Nigeria’s metal sector is particularly significant as the country seeks to bolster its standing within the global mining industry. By addressing the challenges of illegal mining and advocating sustainable practices, Nigeria aims to attract investment and promote the comprehensive development of its mineral resources.
In light of these advancements, it is evident that the Nigerian government and industry stakeholders are proactively addressing the issues confronting the metal sector. The proposed Presidential Executive Order, alongside the ban on the export of raw solid minerals and the emphasis on local value-added processing, reflects a unified endeavour to regulate and enhance the country’s mining industry.
As Nigeria continues its efforts towards sustainable mining practices and the enhanced development of mineral resources, it is imperative for all stakeholders to collaborate and uphold the utmost standards of environmental and social responsibility. Through such collective endeavors, Nigeria can position itself as a responsible and appealing investment destination within the mining and metal sectors.
