The Federal Government’s Ultimatum to Illegal Miners: Cooperate or Face the Consequences

The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a stern warning to illegal miners, providing a 30-day ultimatum to join a miners’ cooperative or seek alternative means of livelihood. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, delivered this directive during the launch of the ‘Agenda for the Transformation of the Solid Minerals for International Competitiveness and Domestic Prosperity’ in Abuja.

Alake highlighted that the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development is poised to establish a security task force and mines police to address the issue of illegal mining and smuggling. He further cautioned that after the 30-day grace period, security agencies will enforce a crackdown on illicit mining activities.

In his statement, Alake declared, “For the last time, let me declare that the ministry is giving such persons 30 days grace to join a miners’ cooperative or find another vocation to do. On the expiration of the period, the full weight of the law will fall on anyone seen on a mining site without a determinable status.”

Additionally, Alake disclosed plans for a comprehensive campaign to disseminate the message in Nigerian languages via radio broadcasts. He also announced the imminent deployment of a dedicated security regime in the solid minerals sector, including a specially trained mine police force from the Nigeria Police, as well as a new mines surveillance security task force to proactively address breaches of mining laws.

To complement these efforts, Alake stressed the importance of state and federal governments working together to ensure the effective prosecution of cases against illegal miners in competent courts, as a deterrent and punitive measure.

The crackdown on illegal mining activities is a crucial step towards regulating the solid minerals sector and protecting the country’s natural resources. These measures are expected to promote responsible and sustainable mining practices while supporting the growth and development of legitimate mining operations in Nigeria.

It is essential for all stakeholders, including illegal miners, to adhere to the government’s directive and comply with the law. Failure to do so will result in punitive measures, as the federal government remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the responsible exploitation of the country’s mineral resources.

In conclusion, the government’s call for illegal miners to join cooperatives or seek alternative vocations highlights the need for a collaborative and lawful approach to mining activities. With the forthcoming establishment of a dedicated security task force and the threat of a crackdown on illegal mining, it is evident that the federal government is determined in its efforts to regulate the solid minerals sector for the benefit of all Nigerians.