Civil Society Organizations Sound the Alarm on Threats to Nigeria’s Mining Sector
Thirty Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have come forward to raise concerns about potential sabotage in Nigeria’s mining sector. The CSOs allege that certain individuals are plotting to undermine President Bola Tinubu’s efforts in the sector and have cautioned these adversaries to abstain from such actions.
The CSOs arrived at these suspicions after conducting an extensive independent assessment of Nigeria’s mining industry. They have issued a grave warning about an undercover scheme by a group of individuals who were displaced by the administration. According to the CSOs, these individuals aim to engage in illicit activities within the sector in a bid to sabotage its progress.
Led by the Global Peace and Life Rescue Initiative (GOPRI), the thirty non-partisan organisations have urged President Tinubu’s administration to view the mining sector as a potential avenue for diversifying Nigeria’s revenue beyond the oil sector. Their position was articulated in a joint statement signed by prominent individuals including Ambassador Melvin Ejeh, Executive Director of GOPRI; Dr Ibrahim Khalifa, National Coordinator of the Centre for Justice and Good Governance in Africa; Engineer Bashir Dan Zaria, Executive Director of the Conference of North West Professionals Network (CONOWP); Dr Mrs Remi Edun, National Coordinator of Community Action for Development (CAD); and Dr Mrs Ngozi Amechi, National Women Empowerment Network (NAWOEN).
In their statement, the groups have cautioned against an alleged campaign of defamation targeting the leadership of the mining sector. Expressing their astonishment at the extensive transformation and reforms taking place within the Ministry of Solid Minerals, particularly the Nigeria Mining Cadastral Office, the CSOs highlighted the complete digitalisation and restructuring of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre. Emphasising its global competitiveness, the CSOs have alerted the government and citizens to remain vigilant against any attempts to tarnish the agency’s reputation and its leadership.
The statement also outlined concerns about potential backlash from major players who were previously involved in illegal and fraudulent mining activities and have since been displaced. The CSOs have warned that these entities could retaliate against the ongoing reforms within the Nigeria Cadastre Office, posing a significant challenge to the sector’s progress.
This alert from the CSOs sheds light on the intricate challenges and potential threats faced by Nigeria’s mining sector. As the sector continues to undergo significant reforms, it is imperative to address the concerns raised by the CSOs and take proactive measures to safeguard the sector’s integrity and progress. The collaborative efforts of civil society organisations, along with the government’s commitment, will be instrumental in ensuring the sustainable development and success of Nigeria’s mining industry.
