The Nigerian government is currently intensifying its efforts to eradicate illegal mining activities, resulting in numerous arrests of unlicensed miners since April. The primary focus is on the theft of lithium, a crucial mineral utilized in batteries for electric vehicles, smartphones, and power systems. These apprehensions form part of Nigeria’s broader objective to regulate its mining operations, restrain illicit activities, and fully capitalize on its mineral resources.
The global transition towards clean energy and renewable resources, and away from coal, oil, and gas, has caused a surge in demand for minerals such as lithium and tin. Nonetheless, Nigeria, like numerous other countries, grapples with illegal mining due to corrupt regulatory officials and the remote locations of mineral deposits. Furthermore, earnings from such illicit mining activities have reportedly financed militia groups in the northern region of the country.
In recent developments, a collaborative team of soldiers and police executed a major operation in the southwestern Oyo State, culminating in the arrest of 32 individuals, including two Chinese nationals, local workers, and mineral traders. This operation was aimed at dismantling an illicit lithium trading hub in Kishi, which was formerly renowned for vending agricultural produce. The community has voiced concerns regarding the insecurity often associated with illegal mining activities.
The participation of Chinese nationals in Nigeria’s mining industry has been a contentious issue, particularly due to reports of environmental degradation and exploitative labor practices. Chinese companies, particularly in the electric vehicle supply chain, have come under scrutiny for their operations in Nigeria. This situation prompted President Bola Tinubu to seek international assistance in addressing the issue, highlighting the connection between illegal mining and the exacerbation of conflicts in the country.
Nigeria’s emergence as a new source of lithium in Africa has brought attention to the challenges facing the country’s extractive sector. Illicit activities in the sector have led to substantial losses in government revenue on an annual basis. In response to these losses, Nigeria has deployed a 2,200-strong “corps of mining marshals” dedicated to combating illegal mining activities.
In a bid to formalise the mining sector fully, Nigeria is also encouraging artisanal miners to operate legally by forming cooperatives. These measures, combined with sustained law enforcement efforts, underscore Nigeria’s determination to regulate its mineral resources and tackle illegal mining activities.
Despite the challenges, Nigeria’s heightened focus on regulating the mining of critical minerals indicates a positive step towards harnessing its mineral resources for economic development and sustainable growth.
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