The Urgency of Addressing Illegal Mining Activities in Nigeria

United States-based lawyer and chartered accountant, Chief Owolabi Salis, has conveyed deep concern regarding the escalating activities of illegal miners in Nigeria. He has underscored the imperative for the Federal Government to proactively address this issue, highlighting that these illegal miners, often in collaboration with foreign entities, are significantly contributing to the country’s insecurity.

In discussions with journalists in Ibadan, Salis articulated that illegal miners are not only exploiting natural resources without approval, but are also funding insurgency and instigating communal clashes to displace local communities. He expressed strong criticism towards the government’s 30-day ultimatum to illegal miners, asserting that merely joining a miners association would not effectively combat this pressing issue.

Salis highlighted significant financial losses suffered by Nigeria due to negligence in the mining sector, with illegal mining and smuggling playing pivotal roles in this crisis. He advocated for a more rigorous approach to address illegal mining operations, emphasizing the necessity for the government to enact and enforce laws specifically targeting this detrimental activity.

Furthermore, Salis advocated for the inclusion of mining education in the national curriculum, emphasizing the importance of educating younger generations about the benefits and significance of the mining sector. He proposed that integrating mining education in primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions would not only raise awareness but also equip future generations with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to the development of the mining industry in Nigeria.

Drawing attention to leadership in Africa, Salis highlighted the failure of leadership to prioritize the transformation of natural resources for human benefit. He called upon President Bola Tinubu to allocate more focus on the mining sector, emphasizing the need for comprehensive policies and measures to harness the potential of solid minerals as well as precious gems found in the country’s oceans.

In conclusion, Chief Owolabi Salis’s impassioned plea to the Federal Government to take decisive action against illegal mining sheds light on a critical issue that demands immediate attention. His insights and recommendations underscore the urgency of addressing the challenges posed by illegal miners and the necessity of implementing strict laws to regulate and control this pervasive problem. With Nigeria’s rich mineral resources at stake and the grave security implications associated with illegal mining activities, the call for proactive measures and long-term solutions is imperative.