Illegal mining has been a persistent and troubling issue in Nigeria, driven by a variety of vested interests and a weak security infrastructure. The illicit activities of mining mafias, often involving Chinese nationals, have led to significant financial losses for Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, exacerbated by widespread corruption.
The Federal Government has consistently expressed its dedication to developing the mining sector in order to diversify the economy and increase its contribution to the GDP, exports, and foreign reserves. Despite these efforts, the sector only contributed 0.5 percent to the GDP in 2019, compared to over 12.1 percent in the 1970s. In contrast, other countries such as Botswana, Ghana, and South Africa have significantly higher contributions from the mining sector to their national economies.
While previous attempts to curb illegal mining have produced limited results, a collaborative initiative involving the Ministries of Solid Minerals, Interior, and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has shown promise. The NSCDC Mining Marshals, under the leadership of Commandant General Abubakar Ahmed Audi, have made significant progress in combating illegal mining, including numerous arrests, prosecutions, and the confiscation of minerals.
Despite their successes, the Mining Marshals face significant challenges, including interference and physical attacks from local mafias protecting illegal mining operations. However, with recent support from the government, championed by Mr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals, the Mining Marshals continue to make substantial strides in combating illegal mining.
The illegal mining trade, estimated to be worth billions of dollars, has had devastating effects on the environment and local communities in Nigeria. For example, Olufofo, a coal mining-affected village in Kogi State, has suffered severe environmental degradation, leading to hunger and poverty among its residents.
The efforts of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps’ Mining Marshals offer hope in the fight against illegal mining. However, for Nigeria to fully exploit the potential of its mining sector, it requires not only the relentless efforts of these dedicated marshals but also robust legal frameworks, enhanced security measures, and unmitigated political will. The success of this initiative can serve as a model for other sectors plagued by similar issues.
As Nigeria continues to combat illegal mining, the support and involvement of every Nigerian citizen become crucial. The journey towards a transparent and prosperous mining sector may be challenging, but with sustained effort and collective resolve, Nigeria can turn its mineral wealth into a cornerstone of national development, ensuring a brighter and more equitable future for all its people.