In a decisive intelligence-led operation, Nigeria’s efforts against illegal lithium mining Nigeria have seen a significant victory. The South-West Zonal Office of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, in close collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), Kwara State Command, successfully intercepted seven trucks suspected of illegally transporting lithium ore. This bold move underscores the federal government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s precious mineral resources from exploitation and ensuring that all mining activities adhere strictly to legal frameworks. The operation, which began with credible intelligence, highlights the intensified surveillance and enforcement strategies now in place to combat mineral theft across the country.
Engineer Ganiyu Ajibade, the Zonal Mine Officer for the South-West, disclosed that the crackdown was initiated following intelligence received on Thursday, January 8, 2026. The information indicated that a convoy of twelve trucks had been mobilized with the intent to illegally remove lithium ore from an active mining site situated in Saki, Oyo State. This crucial piece of intelligence set in motion a multi-agency response designed to track and apprehend the illicit transporters.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the Ministry engaged the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and DSS personnel within Oyo State. Concurrently, directives were issued to colleagues in Kwara and Ogun states, instructing them to mobilize their respective surveillance teams. This coordinated approach aimed to monitor and track the movement of the trucks carrying the illegally sourced lithium products across state lines, demonstrating a unified front against mineral illicit trade.
What is illegal mining in Nigeria? Illegal mining refers to the extraction of mineral resources without the necessary government permits, licenses, or adherence to environmental and labor regulations. It often involves unauthorized access to mining sites, tax evasion, and can lead to significant environmental degradation and economic losses for the nation.
The operation revealed that the convoy departed Saki at approximately 11:30 PM on January 8, reaching Igbeti in the early hours of Friday morning. The trucks continued their journey towards Ilorin, Kwara State, by 7:00 PM. Between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM on the same day, seven of the trucks were successfully apprehended along the Okoolowo–Eyenkorin Expressway in Kwara. During the arrest, one driver managed to escape, abandoning his vehicle, while the remaining drivers were taken into custody for questioning.
Upon interrogation, the arrested drivers admitted that they had been hired by an individual to transport the lithium ore. They also claimed their operations were accompanied by a mine marshal personnel from Abuja, raising further questions about potential collusion or broader networks involved in mineral theft. All accompanying documents issued at the mining site, which are now under scrutiny, were recovered during the arrest, adding critical evidence to the ongoing investigation into legal vs illegal lithium mining practices.
Engineer Ajibade emphasized that this successful operation directly reflects the unwavering directives of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake. Minister Alake has consistently maintained a zero-tolerance policy against illegal mining, making it a cornerstone of the Ministry’s agenda. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the government’s resolve to implement robust enforcement measures and protect Nigeria’s vast mineral wealth.
How to stop mineral theft in Nigeria involves a multi-pronged strategy encompassing enhanced surveillance, community engagement, stringent legal frameworks, and decisive enforcement actions. The government is actively working to formalize artisanal mining operations while simultaneously cracking down on large-scale illicit activities, ensuring that the benefits of mineral resources accrue to the state and its citizens.
The importance of lithium to Nigeria’s economy cannot be overstated. As the world transitions towards green energy and electric vehicles, the demand for lithium, a critical component in batteries, continues to soar. Protecting this resource from illegal exploitation is vital for realizing the full economic potential and ensuring sustainable development, positioning lithium mining for economic growth in the long term.
This incident also brings into focus the broader challenges and opportunities within the sector, including the need for a comprehensive Nigeria solid minerals development guide. Such a guide would provide clear regulatory pathways, promote transparency, and encourage responsible investment, differentiating between legitimate operations and those that undermine national assets, such as those operating without a valid mining license vs illegal operation Nigeria.
The DSS Kwara operation update signals a new era of vigilance and enforcement. It is a clear message that the Nigerian government is serious about asserting control over its natural endowments, aligning with the vision for Nigeria mineral resources 2026. The actions taken demonstrate a proactive approach to securing the nation’s economic future and upholding the rule of law in the mining sector, supported by Minister Dele Alake illegal mining policy.
Looking ahead, the commitment to intensify enforcement against illegal mining and mineral theft will be sustained across the country. This strategic focus aims to curb illicit activities, promote responsible resource management, and ensure that the nation’s mineral wealth contributes meaningfully to national development, thereby shaping the lithium mining outlook Nigeria 2026 and beyond. The battle against illegal lithium mining Nigeria is a continuous one, requiring vigilance and collective effort.
