Malian Miner Denies Illegitimate Operations in Nigeria, Cites Legal Approval and Contribution to Economy
Youssouf Sawane, President of the Oyo State chapter of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) members and Nigeria Miners Association, has strongly refuted allegations made by Oyo State residents and Governor Seyi Makinde, claiming that Malians operating mining companies in the state are engaging in illegal activities. Mr. Sawane asserts that his business community operates legitimately in Nigeria and contributes significantly to the Nigerian economy.
Emphasizing that his business community operates with licenses approved by the Nigerian government and duly remits taxes to government coffers, Mr. Sawane has effectively dispelled claims of illegal operations and tax evasion. He has further highlighted that the Nigerian government, the President of Mali, and the Malian ambassador in Nigeria are all aware of the legitimacy of their operations in the country. Additionally, Mr. Sawane asserts that their activities have directly and indirectly contributed to the Nigerian economy.
Refuting allegations of not paying royalties to the Nigerian government, Mr. Sawane has addressed the issue of repatriating money to their home country for development as legitimate business transactions. He has emphasized that their business operations in Nigeria have led to the employment of over 10,000 Nigerians in their various sites and offices. Furthermore, the business community has undertaken Corporate Social Responsibility projects, renovating palaces and schools in areas where their mining sites are located.
Mr. Sawane has also rebuffed claims of smuggling, particularly of money through land borders, reaffirming that all their transactions are legitimate and transparent. He has cited the thousands of Nigerians working in their sites as evidence of the absence of illegal activities within their business operations, stressing that they are operating within the confines of the law and are committed to the development of Nigeria.
Regarding the payment of royalties to the Oyo State government, Mr. Sawane clarified that they remit the required royalties to the federal government as natural resources in the states are owned by the Federal Government. He explained that their registration with the government dictates the annual payments they are expected to make, denying accusations of non-compliance with tax and royalty regulations.
Mr. Sawane has highlighted the misunderstandings and false information being peddled by certain individuals to malign him and other Malians in Oyo State. He expressed frustration with negative influencers within the country and urged for a recognition of the positive contributions being made by his business community to the Nigerian economy.
In conclusion, Mr. Sawane emphasized the importance of lawful operations and urged for a focus on economic advancements in Africa. He called for a shift in perspective, advocating for opportunities for individuals from diverse African nations to work and live across the continent. Mr. Sawane addressed the need for a more inclusive approach to immigrant contributions to the development of African countries.
The statements made by Youssouf Sawane have shed light on the perspective of the Malian mining community in Nigeria, presenting their operations as legitimate and beneficial to the Nigerian economy.
