The Federal Government, through the South-West Zonal Office of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and security agencies, has intercepted seven trucks suspected of illegally transporting lithium ore through Kwara State. The move underscores intensified enforcement efforts against unauthorised mining and mineral trafficking in the region.
The crackdown, which took place on the night of January 9, 2026, followed credible intelligence received earlier in the week indicating that a convoy of 12 trucks had been mobilised to remove lithium ore from an active mining site in Saki, Oyo State.
Engineer Ganiyu Ajibade, Zonal Mine Officer for the South-West, told journalists that once alerted, his office immediately activated a coordinated surveillance effort. He said teams from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were engaged in tracking the convoy as it moved through multiple states.
According to Ajibade, the convoy departed Saki around 11:30 p.m. on January 8, reaching Igbeti early the following morning before continuing toward Ilorin, Kwara State, by around 7:00 p.m.
“Seven trucks were apprehended between 9:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. along the Okoolowo–Eyenkorin Expressway in Kwara State,” he said. “One driver escaped, abandoning his vehicle, while the others were taken into custody.”
When questioned by enforcement officers, the detained drivers admitted they were hired by an individual to transport the lithium ore, and all accompanying documents issued at the mining site were recovered during the operation.
Although specific details about the identity of the person who contracted the drivers have not been disclosed publicly, the revelations from the drivers reinforce concerns about orchestrated illegal extraction and movement of mineral resources across states.
The operation reflects directives from Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, who has maintained a zero-tolerance policy against illegal mining and mineral theft throughout his tenure.
Ajibade emphasised that the intercept signals the ministry’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources and warned that enforcement efforts would be intensified nationwide. “We are committed to ensuring that these precious mineral resources are safeguarded for the benefit of the nation,” he said.
Nigeria’s solid mineral sector, particularly lithium, has drawn increased attention due to the global demand for the metal in battery production and renewable energy technologies. However, the rapid rise in value has also sharpened focus on illegal mining operations, particularly in states like Kwara and neighbouring regions where enforcement remains a challenge for authorities.
The recent interception follows similar government actions against illicit mineral activities, though this is one of the more high-profile seizures involving a multi-state operation. Analysts say such coordinated efforts are essential as Nigeria seeks to formalise and regulate its mineral extraction industries to protect revenue and prevent environmental degradation.
Following the arrests, the detained drivers are expected to face further interrogation as part of ongoing investigations. Enforcement officials are also examining documentation and other evidence to trace the network behind the illegal operation, with potential legal action against perpetrators anticipated.
Authorities have not yet released information about any charges that will be filed, but given Nigeria’s legal framework surrounding mining and natural resource protection, violations could attract severe penalties under existing laws designed to curb unlawful extraction and transport of mineral resources.
