NSAC Urges Nigeria to Avoid Oil Sector Mistakes in Mining

The Nigerian Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) cautioned Nigeria against repeating the environmental and governance failures experienced during the oil sector's development as the country seeks to capitalize on the growing global demand for critical minerals. This warning was issued in a communiqué at the end of a conference held in Abuja, which brought together various stakeholders, including government representatives, traditional institutions, civil society organizations, and community groups.

The conference highlighted the significant economic opportunities presented by the demand for critical minerals, particularly for renewable energy technologies and electric vehicles. However, NSAC stressed that without robust environmental safeguards and transparent governance, the rush for these minerals could lead to a cycle of exploitation similar to that seen in oil-producing regions.

The communiqué also called for mandatory implementation of free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC) for projects affecting indigenous peoples and emphasized the need for independent environmental and social impact assessments.