Experts Warn of Environmental Risks as Lithium Mining Expansion Accelerates in Nasarawa

Environmental specialists have sounded the alarm over the rapid expansion of lithium mining in Nasarawa State and other parts of Nigeria, cautioning that inadequate regulation and weak oversight could pose serious threats to communities and local ecosystems.

According to the experts, extraction activities have been increasing not only in Nasarawa but also in Niger, Benue, Kogi and Kaduna states, driven by rising global demand for lithium, a key mineral used in electric vehicle batteries, smartphones and renewable energy technologies.

While the Federal Government has prioritised lithium within its mining strategy and investment interest has grown, residents of areas near mining operations such as Toto in Nasarawa say they are already feeling the effects of the rush for lithium. Locals report concerns about airborne dust and potential water contamination from processing activities, and uncertainty over long-term impacts on health and livelihoods.

Environmental expert Prof Chukwumerije Okereke warned that if mining is not properly regulated, Nigeria could face a “resource curse” similar to issues experienced in its oil sector, with land disturbance, water pollution and deforestation among the major risks. He questioned whether proper Environmental and Social Impact Assessments have been conducted and made public.

Another specialist, Philip Jakpor of the Renevlyn Development Initiative, highlighted that poorly managed processing could lead to harmful chemical tailings and wastewater seeping into soil and water sources, potentially affecting the wider environment beyond mine sites.

Residents have also shared concerns about polluted water bodies and disruption to farming, underscoring the need for greater transparency, community involvement and stronger enforcement of environmental protections as mining activities expand.

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