Recently, I accompanied a team from Timadix Geomin Consult Ltd to one of Nigeria's largest lithium deposit locations in Kokona, Nasarawa State. Led by Managing Director Engr. Tim, our mission was to evaluate the site and interact with local residents. To our dismay, we discovered a considerable number of illegal miners actively operating without government authorization.

Upon our arrival, the scale of mining operations was alarming, with rudimentary tools and equipment strewn across the site. Engr. Tim, a seasoned professional in mining, expressed deep concern about the situation. "This is a significant problem," he remarked. "Illegal mining not only poses environmental and health hazards but also results in lost revenue for licensed miners, the government, and the exploitation of local communities."

We encountered a group of about 50 illegal miners. Many fled at our approach, while others were detained by mining marshals and were initially reluctant to speak with us. However, Engr. Tim, fluent in Hausa, quickly built a rapport with them, engaging them in friendly conversation about their work and the recent Sallah festivities. The largely uneducated and unemployed artisanal miners opened up to him, sharing their motivations for participating in illicit activities.

One miner, who preferred to remain anonymous, confided in Engr. Tim that he could earn up to N3,000 daily—more than he would make working for an employer. However, further inquiries revealed that their earnings were likely much higher, as discussions with a bicycle operator among them indicated that the real profits were going to community dealers and middlemen controlling the trade.

As I observed Engr. Tim's dialogues with the miners, I noted their stories reflected a lack of educational and job opportunities, with many citing poverty as the driving force behind their actions. Engr. Tim attentively listened and took notes, understanding their plight.

During a conversation, he asked one miner about his age, prompting a revealing exchange about his marital status and family obligations. This conversation illuminated the miners’ vulnerability—not just to the dealers but due to broader systemic issues.

Engr. Tim highlighted the dangers of illegal mining, warning the miners of potential prosecution and imprisonment if apprehended again. He encouraged them to form a community association for unemployed individuals under the mining license's jurisdiction and collaborate with him.

In a discussion with Engr. Tim about the overall findings, he remarked, "This is a complicated issue. We must tackle the underlying causes of poverty and create employment opportunities in these communities, while also collaborating with the government to establish alternative livelihoods and support the mining sector's formalization."

As we prepared to leave, Engr. Tim informed the miners of our intent to return, this time accompanied by authorities, indicating that any illegal actions would result in serious consequences. The miners nodded, aware of the risks they faced.

The visit to Kokona was enlightening, showcasing the serious issue of illegal mining in Nigeria. As a reporter, I recognized the complexity of the situation and the necessity for a comprehensive approach to resolution. Additionally, the experience highlighted the critical need for responsible mining practices that prioritize community well-being and environmental sustainability.

The region's beautiful weather and clear skies suggested potential for tourism development, should the government choose to capitalize on it. I also toured the primary site where Timadex is exploring, adjacent to where we identified illegal mining, and saw significant potential that could benefit both the community and state revenue. I urge the state government to provide necessary support to Timadex to enable their success.

Leaving the site, I contemplated the future for the miners and the communities impacted by illegal mining. Will the government and private sector collaborate to foster alternative livelihoods and support the formalization of the sector? Only time will tell, but it is clear that the issue of illicit mining in Nigeria demands immediate action and intervention.