The Role of Powerful Individuals in Illegal Mining and its Impact on National Security
The Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, presented a startling disclosure during his appearance for the 2024 budget defense before the House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals. He revealed that the Federal Government has uncovered evidence suggesting that influential Nigerians involved in illegal mining are financing banditry and terrorism in the country. This revelation exposes the connection between illegal mining activities and the widespread insecurity across the nation.
Alake underscored the significance of this discovery by emphasizing that the insecurities and banditry associated with the mining sector are being largely sponsored by these powerful individuals. He clarified that these individuals are not artisan miners, but rather heavyweights within Nigeria. Moreover, he highlighted that despite the visible presence of foreigners in the sector, it is the influential Nigerians who are the primary driving force behind the illegal mining activities. The government has initiated efforts to identify these individuals and is implementing various strategies, both kinetic and non-kinetic, to address the issue.
The Minister stressed the importance of miners forming themselves into cooperatives to ensure their safety and access to basic necessities. He expressed concern for their well-being, asserting that every Nigerian has a right to life and basic necessities. Alake pointed out that if the government cannot provide these necessities, it would be unjust to compel them into the bush, prompting the need for a change in approach.
In addition to the security concerns, Alake emphasized the necessity of safeguarding mining sites and potential locations to restore confidence among investors in Nigeria’s mining sector. He highlighted the vast potential of the sector, citing a conservative estimate of over $700 billion in mineral deposits within the country. He also noted that Nigeria possesses 44 minerals in high demand, with seven of them being of the highest demand globally.
In response to the Minister’s remarks, the chairman of the committee, Gaza Gbefwi, recognized the pivotal role of the solid minerals sector in achieving the necessary level of economic diversification for Nigeria. This recognition underscores the significance of the sector in contributing to the country’s economic growth and stability.
The astonishing revelation by the Minister of Solid Minerals casts light on the complexities of illegal mining activities in Nigeria and their impact on national security. It underscores the need for decisive action to address the involvement of powerful individuals in such activities and to ensure the safety of artisan miners. The potential of the mining sector to drive economic diversification and attract investment further underscores the importance of addressing these pressing issues. As the government continues to identify and implement strategies to combat illegal mining, it is essential for all stakeholders to work together towards securing the sector and fostering its growth.
