– Nigeria reportedly loses $9 billion annually due to illegal mining activities, as revealed by the House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals.
– In the past seven months, the Nigerian Army has arrested 387 suspects involved in illegal mining.
– Committee Chairman, Jonathan Gaza Gbefwi, highlighted the adverse effects of illegal mining on the nation’s benefits from mineral resources, mentioning the insignificant 3% royalty paid by licensed miners.
– Illegal mining has intensified insecurity and conflicts over mining sites, further aggravating political and social tensions in affected communities.
– The committee is conducting public hearings to investigate illegal mining activities, financial interventions, and potential amendments to mining regulations, aimed at restoring transparency and accountability in the solid minerals sector.
– Gbefwi emphasised the urgent need for decisive action to regulate the mining sector, safeguarding natural resources for future generations.
– General Christopher Musa noted that illegal miners often have powerful connections that shield them from accountability, with foreigners also participating in these activities.
– Colonel Tajudeen Lamidi confirmed the army’s efforts to combat illegal mining, underscoring the growing socio-economic challenges it poses, particularly for vulnerable populations.
– Speaker Tajudeen Abbas stressed that addressing illegal mining is crucial for protecting ecosystems and supporting local livelihoods.
