KEY POINTS
- Lithium firm shut down for resuming mining without authorization.
- State government enforces rules to protect communities and resources.
- Governor directs clampdown on illegal mining to prevent sabotage.
The Nasarawa State Government has arrested the manager of Trimadix Geomin Consult Limited, a lithium mining firm, for operating illegally.
This action, carried out on Sunday, follows the company’s unauthorized resumption of mining operations in Kokona Local Government Area after it was previously shut down in June 2024.
The operation, led by Environment and Natural Resources Commissioner Yakubu Kwanta, included security forces from the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
Resumption of mining after previous closure
Kwanta explained that the company had been ordered to halt operations due to its failure to obtain both community consent and state government approval.
Despite this, Trimadix Geomin Consult Limited resumed its activities under the cover of darkness.
“We got information that they entered the site at night and started blasting,” Kwanta told reporters.
“They are bragging that they have the backing of some prominent persons in the country and that the state government cannot stop them.”
According to Daily Post, Kwanta emphasized that the state government will no longer tolerate acts of economic sabotage or illegal mining operations that threaten community welfare and state revenue.
Governor Sule’s directive to combat illegal mining
The commissioner reaffirmed Governor Abdullahi Sule’s recent directive to crack down on unregulated mining activities.
He stressed the importance of protecting local communities while ensuring that mining operations comply with state regulations.
“Natural resources are supposed to be a blessing to our people,” Kwanta said. “Any company coming to mine in the state must obtain community consent and government approval to ensure that both the community and the state benefit.”
He warned other mining firms against flouting state regulations and emphasized that the government will take action against any company operating outside the law, regardless of their influence or connections.
Protecting communities and State resources
Kwanta reiterated that illegal mining activities not only rob the state of revenue but also pose significant security threats to local communities.
The government’s crackdown aims to ensure that natural resources are managed responsibly and equitably.
Nasarawa State has vowed to prioritize the interests of its residents, sending a strong message to companies engaging in unauthorized operations: adhere to the law or face consequences.
