The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has shut down an illegal lithium mining operation in Libata, Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State, amid allegations of mineral theft amounting to over ₦1.43 trillion.
The operation, carried out by the NSCDC Mining Marshals under the authority of a Federal High Court order, uncovered that the site was operated by Three Crown Mines Ltd, now under investigation for violating mining regulations and engaging in large-scale illegal extraction.
Authorities allege that, in collaboration with unnamed foreign nationals, the company illegally extracted lithium worth ₦1.43 trillion over a two-year period. The firm reportedly operated beyond the limits of its Small Scale Mining and Exploration Licences and encroached upon mineral rights legally assigned to another entity.
Officials say these actions contravened Section 46(2) of the 2007 Minerals and Mining Act and Section 48 of the Nigerian Mining Regulations, 2011. Besides the massive financial loss to the federal government, the unauthorized operation is seen as a significant breach of Nigeria’s mining laws and a threat to the nation’s mineral sovereignty.
The mining site was sealed following a joint inspection involving security operatives, state mine officials, and representatives from the company.
Directors Decline NSCDC Summons
In a further twist, directors of Three Crown Mines failed to honour a summons to appear before investigators in Abuja on July 21. Their legal representative, Y.C. Maikyau, SAN, submitted a letter citing “inconvenience” as the reason for their absence—a justification the NSCDC has rejected.
The Corps warned that any attempt to obstruct the investigation would not be tolerated and stated that a new appearance date would be agreed upon to prevent delays.
Assistant Commandant John Onoja, who leads the NSCDC Mining Marshals, emphasized a firm stance on illegal mining. “We will not negotiate Nigeria’s mineral wealth at any table. Mineral theft is a criminal act, not subject to settlement,” he said.
This crackdown follows recent sanctions imposed on Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company, which was fined ₦2 billion for similar offences. These actions, Onoja noted, align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and directives from the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake.
Lithium Theft: A National Threat
Lithium, essential for global clean energy technologies, has become a strategic mineral for Nigeria’s economic future. However, government officials warn that uncontrolled exploitation could jeopardize national revenue and long-term development.
Commenting on the situation, NSCDC Commandant-General Dr. Abubakar Ahmed Audi reiterated the need for strict law enforcement. “The protection of federal revenue through legal compliance in the mining sector is non-negotiable. This clean-up is crucial to Nigeria’s prosperity,” he said.
The NSCDC affirmed that further investigations are ongoing and pledged continued efforts to sanitize the mining industry.
