The Role of Powerful Elites in Illegal Mining and Its Impact on Nigeria’s Security

During a recent session with the House of Representatives committee on solid minerals, Dele Alake, Nigeria’s minister of solid minerals, disclosed concerning information. He revealed that influential individuals engaged in illicit mining are implicated in various criminal activities, including the financing of terrorism and banditry in Nigeria.

Alake underscored that the perpetrators behind these criminal activities are not mere individuals scavenging for gold in the soil. Rather, they are formidable figures wielding substantial influence in the nation. He also emphasised that the majority of illegal miners in Nigeria are not foreigners, but rather Nigerian nationals lacking proper immigration status.

The minister highlighted the imperative of identifying and addressing the involvement of these influential individuals through both kinetic and non-kinetic means. He also advocated for the establishment of cooperatives among small-scale illegal miners to regulate and formalise their operations.

Alake underscored the significance of implementing a formalised structure in the mining sector that multinational corporations can collaborate with, akin to the model utilised by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. He contended that this approach would provide stability and shield against political interference, thereby ensuring sustainable development in the mining industry.

Emphasising the potential of Nigeria’s mineral resources, Alake urged the committee to lend its support to the formalisation and expansion of the mining sector for the benefit of the country’s economy. He also stressed the importance of involving local communities in the decision-making process to forestall instability.

Furthermore, Alake petitioned the committee to deliberate on the proposed budget for his ministry in 2024, asserting that with adequate funding, the ministry could make a substantial contribution to Nigeria’s revenue generation, possibly surpassing that of the oil sector.

He also emphasised that Nigeria boasts 44 minerals in high global demand, with six in particular being sought after. With the appropriate backing, the country has the potential to emerge as a leading investment destination driven by its abundant mineral resources.

Gaza Gbefwi, chairman of the house committee on solid minerals, echoed the significance of the sector as a potential driver of economic diversification in Nigeria. He urged for increased investment and sufficient funding to address essential aspects such as electricity access, transportation infrastructure, and security within the mining sector.

In conclusion, the issue of illegal mining and its ramifications on Nigeria’s security and economy is a matter of great concern. Addressing these challenges and formalising the mining sector is indispensable for sustainable development and economic growth. The involvement of influential elites in illegal mining must be addressed, and Nigeria’s mineral resources should be leveraged with the requisite support and investment.