Crackdown on Illegal Mining: FG Sets 30-Day Deadline and Promises License Review
The Federal Government has adopted a strong stance against illegal mining, issuing a stern 30-day ultimatum to those engaging in such activities within the country. The announcement was conveyed by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, during a press conference in Abuja on Sunday. Alake articulated the government’s frustration with its efforts to formalize unlicensed miners into cooperative groups, citing their resistance and noncompliance.
In addition to the ultimatum, the Minister revealed the government’s intentions to comprehensively review all mining licenses in the country as part of its transformation agenda. This agenda encompasses the establishment of the Nigerian Solid Minerals Cooperation, the formation of joint ventures with mining multinationals, the establishment of a dedicated mine police/task force, and the generation of comprehensive data for solid minerals in Nigeria.
This recent development builds upon the Minister’s commitment to sanitizing the solid minerals sector by implementing stricter regulations to promote stability. During a meeting with Ms. Lean Johnston, the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Alake reaffirmed his dedication to addressing the detrimental impact of illegal mining. He also assured that the government would prioritize investors in the sector to boost the economy and create job opportunities.
Furthermore, the Australian envoy expressed willingness to provide support for the optimization of solid minerals in Nigeria, aligning with the government’s efforts to combat illegal mining and strengthen the sector.
The government’s crackdown on illegal mining and the pledge to review mining licenses signify a pivotal shift in policy towards sustainable solid minerals development in Nigeria. The ultimatum serves as a strong warning to illegal miners, emphasizing the government’s unwavering commitment to upholding mining regulations and promoting lawful and responsible mining practices.
The Minister’s proactive approach to engaging international partners, as demonstrated through the meeting with the Australian High Commissioner, reinforces the government’s dedication to seeking support and collaboration for the advancement of the solid minerals sector. Such partnerships are crucial in fostering effective strategies to tackle illegal mining and harness the potential of Nigeria’s abundant mineral resources.
In conclusion, the Federal Government’s decisive actions to curb illegal mining and enhance the solid minerals sector are a testament to its dedication to sustainable development. The 30-day ultimatum, coupled with the planned review of mining licenses, serves as a clear signal of the government’s unwavering commitment to transforming the mining industry and promoting responsible mining practices. As the government forges ahead with its agenda, collaboration with international partners, such as Australia, will play a crucial role in realising the full potential of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.
