The Issue of Illegal Mining and Banditry in Nigeria

The Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, has raised significant concerns about the alleged ties between influential individuals in Nigeria and illegal mining, as well as the financing of terrorism and banditry in the country. Alake disclosed that a majority of the illegal miners are Nigerian nationals rather than foreign entities, and they are receiving support from powerful figures within the nation.

In his presentation before the House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals to justify the 2024 budget, Alake emphasised the necessity for a formal framework in the mining industry, akin to the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). He underscored the importance of establishing a primarily private sector-driven structure for the proposed Nigeria Mining Cooperation to ensure stability and sustained revenue generation.

Additionally, Alake highlighted the prospective revenue that the mining sector could contribute to the country, affirming that the ministry’s contributions could surpass those of other ministries, such as the oil sector, with appropriate budgetary allocations. He pointed out that there are 44 minerals in high demand, six of which hold significant global appeal.

In response to Alake’s assertions, the committee’s chairman, Hon. Gaza Gbefwi, recognised the importance of the solid minerals sector for Nigeria’s economic diversification but expressed apprehension about the inadequacy of funds designated for the sector in the 2024 budget.

Moreover, in a related development, the House of Representatives has pledged to address environmental degradation through legislative and policy review. The Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Hon. Julius Pondi, highlighted the escalating challenges of flood, pollution, erosion, deforestation, and other environmental disasters, emphasizing the need for prompt action to avert further degradation.

Pondi also underscored the global dimension of the environmental challenges and the significance of collaborative endeavours to identify solutions. He reassured that the committee would concentrate on amending laws and policies to effect positive changes and resolutions to Nigeria’s environmental challenges.

In conclusion, the concerns raised by Minister Alake and the commitment of the House of Representatives to address environmental degradation underscore the necessity of sustainable and responsible resource management in Nigeria. It is evident that concerted efforts are required to combat illegal mining, promote environmental preservation, and ensure the responsible development of the nation’s solid minerals sector.