Abdullahi Ibrahim Danjija, a 31-year-old miner in Nasarawa, Nigeria, earns N150,000 ($100) daily from artisanal lithium mining, double the monthly minimum wage. Many miners are attracted to this opportunity due to the increasing global demand for lithium, essential for electric batteries and mobile phones. Despite the allure, much of Nigeria’s mining is small-scale and often illegal, with minimal safety or environmental standards enforced.

At the Gidan Kwano site, some miners avoided media attention, as they operated without legal permits. Nearby, families were seen using explosives to expand their mining operations. Artisanal work thrives, with children and women participating eagerly, providing a means of livelihood as they dig and sell lithium-rich rocks, which costs them only their labour.

China remains the leading consumer of lithium and imports significant quantities while Nigeria aims to attract foreign investment as it promotes its lithium resources. Despite campaigns against illegal mining, the sector is booming. New regulations may require foreign firms to establish processing plants locally, a move that could deter investment from large players like Elon Musk.

Chinese companies have established local operations to refine lithium, even as concerns about inadequate exploration and site verification linger. The Geological Society of Nigeria highlights the need for better regulation and sustainable practices within the mining sector, pointing out that some Chinese miners operate unsafely.

However, artisanal mining can also lead to local conflicts over resource access. Analyst Charles Asiegbu explains that disputes can arise both between communities and with exploration firms. Additionally, armed groups exploit the weak governmental presence in certain regions to conduct illegal extractions while local miners like Danjija continue their hazardous work without respite, even in adverse weather conditions.

The rising global demand for lithium, crucial for electric batteries and mobile gadgets, has drawn interest from miners in Nigeria, particularly in Nasarawa. This interest has spurred artisanal mining, which, though potentially lucrative, often operates illegally without permits or adherence to safety regulations. The Nigerian government is keen to attract foreign investment in this resource sector, but challenges such as illegal mining and civil conflicts complicate efforts.

The burgeoning interest in Nigeria’s lithium reserves highlights both the potential for economic growth and the risks of unregulated artisanal mining. With China as a major player in lithium processing, Nigeria seeks to establish a regulated framework to ensure local benefit from its resources while addressing environmental and community challenges associated with mining operations.

Original Source: punchng.com

The post Foreign Investors Target Nigeria’s Lithium Wealth Amidst Rising Demand first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

Nigeria is becoming a significant source of lithium as demand for renewable energy technologies grows. However, illegal mining operations flourish in communities like Kakanfu in Kwara State, where local leaders and compromised officials collude with artisanal miners. PREMIUM TIMES’ investigation revealed a complex network enabling the illicit sale and transport of lithium, with community members negotiating deals that often bypass national regulations. Although the government is pursuing reforms to regulate mining activities and collect taxes, inefficiencies in enforcement and local corruption allow these illegal operations to persist, undermining potential revenues and environmental protections.

Proceeds from illicit mining contribute to a makeshift economy in Kakanfu, fueling the creation of informal camps that serve various illicit activities, including the presence of sex workers. A lack of legal oversight allows resources to be sold and smuggled with relative ease. With ongoing governmental crackdowns and community levies driving down demand, many artisanal miners are reverting to traditional farming. Despite the government’s announcement of new strategies and partnerships to structure the mining sector, challenges remain as local leaders and miners continue to engage in illegal practices.

The rise of lithium mining in Nigeria is closely linked to the global transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, particularly for electric vehicle batteries. Yet, the sector is plagued by illegal mining activities due to inadequate regulatory frameworks, corruption, and local complicity. This has significant implications for the economy and the environment, as Nigeria potentially loses billions in revenue while community-driven illicit activities thrive. The federal government’s efforts to regulate the sector are ongoing, but the effectiveness of these measures is undermined by entrenched local practices.

In summary, the investigation into illegal lithium mining in Nigeria highlights the urgent need for reform within the mining sector. Strengthened governance structures are essential to curb illegal practices that undermine the economy and environment. The collaboration between local communities and illicit miners poses a formidable challenge, indicating that without effective oversight, Nigeria may continue to miss opportunities to benefit from its mineral wealth. Future success hinges on the government’s ability to enforce regulations and foster legitimate mining practices.

Original Source: dataphyte.com

The post Illegal Lithium Mining in Nigeria: Community Collusion and Government Challenges first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.