Miners Association Urges Federal Government to Rein in State Governors’ Overregulation of Mining Sector
The Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN) has officially declared its willingness to collaborate with the Tinubu administration to create a detailed plan for its participation in a mining program that will aid the country’s economic diversification initiative. Mr. Dele Ayanleke, President of MAN, made this announcement at a conference in Abuja, expressing concerns about the interference of state governments in mining activities.
The association is particularly troubled by the recent trend of some newly elected governors issuing executive orders to either prohibit mining activities or to regulate the sector. MAN considers the overreach of state governments into the domain of constitutionally recognized mining industry regulators to be a growing concern.
MAN is urging the government to establish a clear framework for the management of the solid minerals sector. Ayankele stressed the association’s commitment, stating, “We, as a body of investors and operators, will soon present a detailed plan to the new administration outlining our contributions to a mining program that will actively support the economic diversification agenda.”
The mining lobbying group reiterated its opposition to illegal mining operations and expressed its willingness to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development and other relevant stakeholders to ensure a regulated mining environment. MAN also highlighted specific instances of state governments, such as Ebonyi, Osun, Enugu, Cross River, and Taraba, issuing executive orders to crack down on mining activities.
Ayanleke cited constitutional provisions to emphasize that the regulation of mineral resources and mining operations falls within the Exclusive Legislative List, giving the federal government oversight responsibility. He called on the Federal Government to intervene and uphold the constitution in order to promote best practices in the mining sector.
The MAN president emphasized that the meeting was not intended to antagonize state governments but rather to draw attention to governance impediments affecting the solid minerals sector. Ayanleke underscored the need for the government to capitalize on Nigeria’s mineral resources for economic development and foreign investments.
In a related development, the Nigerian Government has highlighted the damaging impact of illegal artisanal miners on the country’s mining industry. Dr Mary Ogbe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, expressed concerns about the revenue losses and unemployment caused by illegal mining activities. She urged members of MAN to refrain from engaging in illegal mining and to support the sustainable development of the sector.
In conclusion, the mining sector in Nigeria is confronted with significant challenges, primarily due to the overregulation by state governors and the activities of illegal miners. It is crucial for the federal government to assert its authority and collaborate with industry stakeholders to ensure the sustainable development and regulation of the mining sector. Addressing these issues will be critical in achieving the country’s economic diversification objectives.
