Key Individuals Behind Illegal Mining Linked to Banditry and Terrorism, Says Nigerian Minister
During a budget defence session in Abuja, Mr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Mineral, raised a concerning issue regarding the involvement of prominent Nigerians in illegal mining and their alleged financing of banditry and terrorism in the country. According to the minister, these individuals are not mere ordinary miners but are deeply entrenched in criminal activities with significant repercussions.
Alake emphasised that many instances of banditry and terrorism are being fuelled by the actions of illegal miners, presenting a troubling scenario. He highlighted that these illegal miners are not only foreign infiltrators but are supported by powerful figures within the country. Alake underscored that the government is actively identifying these individuals through various means, both kinetically and non-kinetically.
One particularly troubling aspect highlighted by the minister is the lack of proper immigration documentation for a significant number of foreign nationals engaged in illegal mining. This raises serious concerns about border control and the necessity for effective measures to regulate and monitor mining activities within the country.
In order to fully harness the mining sector’s potential and ensure the generation of substantial revenue, Alake proposed the establishment of a formal structure similar to the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Ltd. However, he stressed that the approach for the Nigeria Mining Cooperation would be primarily driven by the private sector, with the Nigerian government holding its equity stake to prevent interference from government bodies.
Alake also brought attention to the significant mineral deposits in Nigeria, estimating their worth to be over 700 billion dollars, with only a fraction of the resources currently being exploited. He highlighted the need for adequate funding to unleash the true potential of the mining sector, stating that the anticipated budget allocation would enable the ministry to make a substantial contribution to the country’s revenue, rivaling that of the oil sector.
The minister also emphasised the global demand for certain minerals found in Nigeria, affirming the country’s potential to become a key player in the global economy through its solid mineral reserves. However, he noted that a conducive environment for investors needed to be created through greater transparency and regulation in the sector.
In response, the chairman of the committee, Rep. Gaza Gbefwi, acknowledged the importance of the solid minerals sector in diversifying the Nigerian economy. However, he expressed concern over the insufficient budget allocation for the sector in the 2024 budget. The committee has pledged to take proactive measures through motions and bills to strengthen and reorganise the sector, recognising its pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic development.
The revelations made by the Minister of Solid Mineral serve as a stark reminder of the complexities underlying the mining sector in Nigeria. Adhering to regulatory standards and addressing the involvement of powerful individuals in illegal mining is crucial to unlocking the country’s potential and ensuring sustainable development. With adequate support and investment, the mining sector has the capacity to emerge as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic growth.
