Powerful Nigerians Behind Illegal Mining and Terrorism, Says FG Official
In a recent development, a notable official of the Federal Government has reversed their previous statements by acknowledging that influential Nigerians are responsible for funding terrorist activities in mineral-rich areas. The disclosure was made by Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, during a budget defence session with the House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals.
Alake expressed apprehension regarding the meagre budget allocation for the solid mineral sector and advocated for a budget of N250 billion for exploration. He estimated the value of Nigeria’s mineral resources at $700 billion and underscored the importance of exploiting these resources to attract foreign investment.
Significantly departing from his previous stance, Alake revealed that powerful individuals involved in illegal mining are major contributors to banditry and terrorism activities. He emphasized the necessity of employing both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to tackle these security challenges.
Additionally, Alake underscored the collaboration between the ministry, the Nigerian armed forces, and other security agencies, along with the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to bolster security in mineral-rich areas. He highlighted the criticality of identifying flashpoints and deploying resources more effectively to combat insecurities and insurrections.
The Minister passionately appealed to the committee to consider the ministry’s budget proposal for 2024, expressing dismay at the inadequate funding for exploration. He emphasized the indispensable role of the solid minerals sector in Nigeria’s economic diversification and development.
In response, the committee’s chairman, Gaza Gbefwi, acknowledged the importance of the solid minerals sector and criticized the profoundly inadequate funds allocated to the sector in the 2024 budget. He called for a review of the budgetary allocation, stressing the sector’s potential for economic growth and development.
Furthermore, the Federal Government has been urged to investigate allegations that influential figures are profiting from the ongoing banditry and kidnappings in Nigeria’s Northwest sub-region. A civil society organization, Arewa Mu Farka Youth Coalition Group, has urged an investigation into the considerable funds spent on combating insecurity.
The group expressed concern over the escalating insecurity and the lack of tangible results despite substantial financial investment in security measures. They highlighted the alarming trend of abductions in higher institutions and the apparent impunity of known bandit leaders, calling for prompt action to rescue abducted students and address the root causes of insecurity.
The group also raised queries about the ‘erroneous’ bombings and killings of innocent civilians by the Nigerian Armed Forces, urging the Federal Government to investigate these incidents and ensure the protection of citizens as stipulated in the Constitution.
These recent developments underscore the intricate challenges facing Nigeria’s solid minerals sector and the urgent need for strategic measures to address insecurity and promote effective resource exploration. As the nation grapples with these issues, the importance of collaborative efforts between government agencies, security forces, and civil society cannot be overstated.
