Caution Urged over Impact of Lithium Mining on Environment and Livelihoods
The recent launch of a significant lithium processing plant in Nasarawa State, Nigeria by the federal government has raised concerns from Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) regarding potential adverse impacts on the environment and local communities. The plant, constructed by Chinese developers, features a substantial production capacity, prompting CAPPA to call for a more rigorous approach to environmental responsibility and the protection of local livelihoods in the pursuit of large-scale lithium mining.
While recognising the substantial economic potential of lithium in propelling Nigeria’s development and establishing the country in the global market for green technologies, CAPPA has expressed reservations about the lack of supervision in mining activities nationwide. The organisation has highlighted the potential negative effects of lithium extraction, citing issues such as the appropriation of local water for processing, indiscriminate waste disposal, violent displacement of communities, and ecological harm.
The absence of effective governance and monitoring in Nigeria’s mining sector has raised concerns about the ramifications of foreign investments in lithium mining. CAPPA has cautioned that these investments could perpetuate exploitation by foreign mining companies and replicate familiar environmental destruction in the country. The organisation has also stressed the need for greater community involvement in decision-making processes and the enforcement of strict regulations to prioritise environmental protection and equitable compensation for land use.
Given these concerns, CAPPA has urged the Nigerian government to review the governance structure of the mining sector and enforce regulations that prioritise community well-being and environmental protection. The organisation has highlighted the importance of holding corporations accountable for their actions and ensuring transparency in their operations to avoid the risk of state-endorsed ecological oppression.
Overall, the caution raised by CAPPA serves as a reminder of the need for a balanced and responsible approach to large-scale lithium mining in Nigeria. While the economic potential of lithium is undeniable, the protection of the environment and the well-being of local communities must remain a top priority in the pursuit of such ventures. By heeding these cautions and implementing robust governance and regulations, Nigeria can strive to build a sustainable and empowering mining future for all stakeholders involved.
