THE NEXUS OF ILLEGAL MINING AND CHILD LABOR IN NIGERIA’S LITHIUM INDUSTRY: SOCIOECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

摘要

Africa’s lithium boom has positioned the continent as a crucial player in the global energy transition. However, this rapid expansion has exacerbated socio-economic challenges, particularly in Nigeria, where illegal mining and child labor persist. This study examines the intersection of unregulated lithium extraction and exploitative labor practices, shedding light on the socio economic and environmental implications.Using a mixed-method approach, the study draws from field surveys, interviews, and secondary data to assess the prevalence of child labor in artisanal lithium mines. Findings indicate that poverty, lack of regulation, and high global demand have fueled the rise of informal mining networks, often controlled by powerful actors who exploit vulnerable populations. Children, in particular, are subjected to hazardous conditions, including exposure to toxic substances and extreme physical labor, violating fundamental human rights and international labor standards.Furthermore, illegal lithium extraction has led to significant environmental degradation, including deforestation, soil erosion, and water contamination. The absence of stringent governmental oversight has enabled the proliferation of illicit supply chains that benefit international markets while impoverishing local communities. The study highlights the urgent need for regulatory frameworks, corporate accountability, and community-driven interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of lithium extraction on Nigeria’s social and economic fabric.This research contributes to the discourse on sustainable mining by advocating for responsible resource governance, ethical labor practices, and socio-economic reforms. Addressing illegal mining and child labor is imperative to ensuring that Nigeria’s lithium industry supports national development without perpetuating exploitation and environmental harm.