New study flags conflict risks as mining footprint grows in Nigeria

A new study on mining expansion in Benue, Plateau, and Kaduna shows that while mining-related violence is mostly sporadic, growing tensions could escalate as influential investors move into areas with limited state oversight. The findings also highlight mining’s stabilising potential, as communities dependent on the sector have strong incentives to maintain security. Conflict drivers differ across the states, with exclusion concerns in Benue, localised disputes in Plateau, and deeper links to non-state armed groups in Kaduna. The research, conducted for the UK-funded SPRiNG programme, offers actionable insights to support conflict-sensitive investment and more resilient mining economies.

Source: adapted from Levin Sources, January 2026.