The Menace of Illegal Mining in Nigeria: Minister Reports on Involvement of Influential Nigerians
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has unveiled that prominent and influential individuals in Nigeria are connected to the illicit mining activities that are causing insecurity and financial detriment in the country. He stressed that the actions of these individuals are not only discouraging foreign investors, but also resulting in substantial revenue losses for the nation. Alake disclosed that the Federal Government is implementing measures to identify and resolve these issues to render the solid minerals sector more secure for potential investors.
During his appearance before the House Committee on Solid Minerals to justify the ministry’s 2024 budget estimate, the minister highlighted the government’s efforts to collaboratively work with the World Bank to maximize the exploitation of Nigeria’s solid minerals. He also discussed plans to incentivize artisanal miners to establish cooperative societies and shared that foreign investors have demonstrated interest in investing in the sector.
Alake further expressed the conviction that with the right investment and support from the government, Nigeria has the potential to become a global hub for solid minerals. He lamented the inadequate budget allocation to the ministry for 2024 and sought the assistance of lawmakers for ample funding to develop the sector. In response, the Chairman of the House Committee, Gaza Gbefwi, acknowledged the importance of the solid minerals sector and expressed optimism in the government’s commitment to its development.
In addition to addressing the issue of illicit mining, the minister also discussed the collaboration with the World Bank to unlock financing and technical support for the development of the solid mineral sector. Highlighting the potential for Nigeria to make the solid minerals sector a major contributor to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Alake welcomed the bank’s willingness to provide funding and technical assistance.
The visit by the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Shubham Chaudhuri, was met with satisfaction from the minister, who acknowledged the institution’s role in spearheading developmental efforts in various sectors of the economy. Alake expressed his gratitude for the support provided by the World Bank in the past and reiterated the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for mining operations while ensuring maximum benefit to host communities and revenue to the government.
In conclusion, the Minister’s revelations about the involvement of influential figures in illicit mining in Nigeria serve as a wakeup call to address the issue of insecurity and financial loss in the solid minerals sector. His discussions about collaboration with the World Bank also shed light on the potential for the sector to contribute significantly to the country’s GDP. As the government seeks to address these challenges and harness the nation’s mineral resources, it is essential for stakeholders to work together towards sustainable and responsible mining practices for the benefit of all.
