Zamfara State, rich in minerals like gold, copper, and lithium, faces severe insecurity linked to illegal mining and banditry, where armed groups engage in cattle rustling and kidnappings. These resources, while valuable, have attracted criminal activities that exploit both the resources and local miners, who often endure unsafe working conditions dominated by intimidation from armed factions.

The Nigerian government instated a mining ban in 2019 to combat escalating insecurity, later expanding to a no-fly zone due to concerns that illegal gold mining funded weapon smuggling. However, the ban failed due to widespread bandit control over mining sites. Many locals remained involved in artisanal mining, as this was their only income source, ironically strengthening bandit operations financially.

Data shows the ban’s ineffectiveness, with registered deaths from insecurity increasing by 183% post-ban, indicating a worsening situation. The ban disrupted local livelihoods, pushing individuals into illegal mining, and bandits exploited this vulnerability to strengthen their criminal activities. With the mining ban lifted in December 2024, the government faced the same issues, as bandits continued to control operations despite the stated improvements in the state’s security.

Addressing these problems requires structural reforms, including the involvement of local authorities in mineral regulation and development. The government needs a comprehensive strategy to enhance security at mining sites through specialised forces and improved surveillance while establishing robust regulations on mineral extraction and sales to combat smuggling. Collaboration with local communities and international partners can also modernise Nigeria’s mining sector.

Additionally, providing alternative employment opportunities and supporting community development can address the economic vulnerabilities faced by Zamfara’s mining communities, reducing their reliance on illegal mining. Emphasising responsible mining practices will help protect both the miners’ well-being and the environment from health hazards and ecological degradation.

The situation in Zamfara highlights the complexity of balancing mineral exploitation with security and community welfare. By focusing on enhanced security measures, regulatory frameworks, and local community support, the Nigerian government could create a sustainable mining sector that deters bandit activity while benefiting the overall economy.

The article discusses the complex relationship between illegal mining, banditry, and economic dependency in Zamfara State, Nigeria. It outlines the history of mining bans instituted by the government aimed at curtailing insecurity resulting from these activities. However, the bans were largely ineffective as they disrupted local livelihoods and empowered armed groups controlling mining sites. The state’s mineral wealth offers potential for economic growth, yet poses significant governance and security challenges.

The lifting of the mining ban in Zamfara is a pivotal moment for Nigeria to tackle insecurity and better utilise mineral wealth. The previous ban revealed the intricate challenges, including worsening insecurity and local economic dependency on illegal mining. Future interventions must robustly address security, community needs, and industry regulation to prevent bandit exploitation while fostering a sustainable mining framework.

Original Source: solacebase.com

The post Can Nigeria Tackle Banditry and Harness Mineral Wealth in Zamfara? first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

In rural Nigeria, children as young as five are exploited in lithium mining, a critical component of the global green energy shift. Known as the “white gold,” lithium mining promises income, yet veils a harsh reality of child labour amidst poverty. As children face dangers in illegal mining operations, the supply chain extends to foreign markets, overshadowed by insufficient regulation and China’s controversial role in Nigeria’s mining industry. This exploitation ensnares vulnerable children in a perilous cycle, trapping them in labour rather than education and a brighter future.

Lithium mining has emerged as a pivotal industry in Nigeria, providing resources critical for renewable energy technologies. However, this growth has a dark side—children are increasingly drawn into the labour force due to extreme poverty. With Nigeria home to substantial lithium reserves, the demand for this mineral often leads to illicit mining activities that exploit the most vulnerable members of society, stemming from the lack of governmental support and stringent oversight to protect children and curb illegal mining practices.

The plight of child miners in Nigeria highlights a grim truth behind the lithium that fuels modern technology. With rampant exploitation driven by poverty and minimal regulatory frameworks, these children are forced to sacrifice their education and safety for survival. Until ethical practices replace profit motives in the global supply chain, the true cost of lithium will continue to burden these young lives, reinforcing a cycle of poverty and exploitation.

Original Source: mahabahu.com

The post Exploitation of Child Workers in Nigeria’s Lithium Mining first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.