15 Chinese Nationals, Nine Nigerians Arraigned Over Alleged Illegal Lithium Mining in Nasarawa

Fifteen Chinese nationals and nine Nigerians have been arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja over allegations of illegal lithium mining in Nasarawa State.

The defendants appeared before Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia of Court 6, Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division, following their arrest by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on May 16, 2026.

According to the NSCDC, the suspects were allegedly engaged in the extraction of lithium without the required legal authorization or valid mining licences in Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

The agency stated that the alleged activities took place within a mineral title area covered by Exploration Licence No. 036528-EL, which is owned by TIMADIX Geomin Consult Limited.

Investigators further alleged that the mining operations were carried out within the designated coordinates covered by the licence area, raising concerns about unauthorized exploitation of the mineral resource.

The Chinese nationals named in the case include Liu Jiabin, Hu Yunzhong, Zhou Yinmou, Zhao Feng, Zhang Yu, Tian Shuqun, Huang Ruqian, Liu Yanliang, Yang Xiaobin, Huang Meiyun, Yuan Tao, Jia Qiuyong, Chen Menghao, Deng Peiming, and Yu Yanhai.

Also standing trial alongside them are nine Nigerian defendants: Thankgod Sani, Abubakar Nuhu, Jonathan Akpa Sunday, Pius Favour, Agada Joshua, Sani Osu, Haruna Asambe, Elenekou Akoete Joli, as well as C and A International New Energy Limited.

The prosecution alleges that the defendants violated Nigeria’s mining regulations by carrying out mineral extraction activities without lawful authority.

Following their arraignment, the court adjourned the matter and fixed June 18, 2026, for the commencement of trial.

The case highlights ongoing efforts by authorities to combat illegal mining activities and enforce compliance with regulations governing Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, particularly as demand for lithium continues to grow globally due to its importance in battery production and renewable energy technologies.