From Ajiri Daniels, Abuja
Stakeholders in Nasarawa State have called on the government to sustain recent gains in lithium exploration and investment, citing the growing economic impact of mining activities in Endo community.
The appeal follows the expansion of operations by Lideal Mines Limited, which residents say has created more than 2,000 direct jobs and boosted small businesses in the area. Community members report a reversal of youth migration, with many returning home for employment opportunities.
A youth leader in Endo, Felix Akor, said the company’s presence has transformed livelihoods. “Young people who once left for Abuja and other cities are now working and earning a living here,” he said.
Beyond job creation, the lithium project is contributing to Nigeria’s push for economic diversification. Lideal Mines is developing a processing plant to produce lithium spodumene concentrate, signaling a shift toward local value addition rather than raw mineral exports.
Community leaders and industry voices, however, warn that sustaining investor confidence will depend on a stable policy environment. They urged the state government to uphold existing agreements and protect licensed operators from interference.
Fredrick Omakpo, an opinion leader in the Udege axis, cautioned against attempts by vested interests to disrupt legitimate mining operations. “Respect for licences and agreements is critical. Investors must be assured their investments are secure,” he said.
Security officials also raised concerns about illegal mining. An officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) said efforts are ongoing to curb unlawful activities and protect licensed miners from what he described as “entrenched interests” seeking to seize control of mining sites.
Traditional authorities echoed support for the project. The village head of Endo, Chief Audu Adagba, praised Lideal Mines for community development initiatives, including skills training and infrastructure support. “This partnership is bringing jobs and hope to our people,” he said.
With global demand for lithium rising due to its use in electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy storage, stakeholders say Nasarawa is well-positioned to benefit from Nigeria’s mineral resources.
They urged the state government to maintain an enabling business environment to attract further investment and ensure that the solid minerals sector continues to drive economic growth.
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