Nigeria’s lithium boom has led to the rise of illegal mining operations that exploit child labour. Young workers like Juliet Samaniya endure harsh conditions and low pay, supporting families while forgoing education. Despite existing laws against child labour, enforcement is inadequate, leaving vulnerable children in dangerous work environments. The industry primarily benefits unregulated Chinese companies, prompting calls for reforms to protect human rights.
In Nigeria’s burgeoning lithium mining sector, illegal operations proliferate, relying heavily on child labour. Youngsters like six-year-old Juliet Samaniya toil under harsh conditions, earning under a dollar a day to support their families. Despite laws against child labour and a mandate for basic education, enforcement remains weak, allowing poverty to drive children into hazardous mines. This burgeoning industry, fuelled by global demand for lithium in batteries, is primarily benefitting unregulated Chinese companies while exploiting Nigeria’s vulnerable populations. Activists call for urgent reforms and better enforcement to safeguard human rights, particularly for children forced into labour.
Nigeria is experiencing a surge in lithium mining, driven by the global demand for this mineral used in electric vehicle batteries and energy storage. However, many of these mines are illegal, and child labour is rampant, particularly in regions like Nasarawa. The combination of extreme poverty, lack of access to education, and weak regulation has led to a situation where children are working in dangerous conditions. Despite existing laws prohibiting such practices, enforcement is lacking, allowing exploitative practices to thrive, particularly amongst mining activities that cater to international markets, especially Chinese companies, who often evade accountability.
The rise of illegal lithium mines in Nigeria has resulted in significant child labour issues, with young children working under perilous conditions for minimal pay. Though Nigerian laws are in place to protect children and promote education, insufficient enforcement means these laws are largely ineffective. Activists are pressing for reforms to preserve children’s rights in mining and to ensure that those in the supply chain adopt ethical practices.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk