Cracking Down on Illegal Mining: EFCC Chairman Takes a Stand

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has articulated a resolute stance to combat the activities of illegal miners across the nation. His remarks were delivered at the 5th Annual Conference of the National Council on Mining and Mineral Resources Development (NCMMRD) in Ilorin, Kwara State. The theme of the conference was “Minerals and Metal: A Panacea for Economic Growth and Diversification”.

Olukoyede underscored the pivotal role of the EFCC in addressing the issue of illegal mining. He emphasized that the Commission has been actively engaged in purging the mining sector in Nigeria in alignment with the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

During the conference, the EFCC Chairman, represented by the Ilorin Zonal Commander of the EFCC, Michael Nzekwe, stressed the gravity of illegal mining, highlighting that it not only poses a threat to the local and national economy, but also endangers the lives of the people. Nzekwe expressed concern over the depletion of resources in Kwara State due to the activities of artisanal miners and pointed out the potential of these resources to sustain the state’s economy if properly utilized.

Furthermore, Olukoyede commended the support of the government of Kwara State in the fight against corruption and illegal mining. He urged all stakeholders to collaborate with the Commission, emphasizing that the EFCC will not handle economic saboteurs leniently.

The unwavering determination of the EFCC to tackle illegal mining is a laudable effort towards promoting ethical mining practices and safeguarding the nation’s economic interests. With the support of relevant authorities, the EFCC aims to curtail the adverse impact of illegal mining and foster sustainable growth in the mining sector.