Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged the formation of a pan-African task force aimed at addressing the issue of illegal mining throughout the continent. His appeal comes in light of recent events in South Africa, where abandoned mine shafts have drawn thousands of miners, highlighting the precarious conditions they endure. Tinubu emphasises that illegal mining is depriving Africa of its critical resources, destabilising economies, and fostering criminal enterprises.

The issue of illegal mining has gained heightened attention in Africa, particularly in South Africa, where numerous miners have emerged from disused mines, facing hazardous and unsanitary conditions. This practice not only threatens safety but also represents a significant economic drain on the continent, as resources are siphoned away without regulation or benefit to local populations. Tinubu’s proposal seeks to unify African nations in combatting these activities and restoring the potential for lawful resource extraction to support economic growth.

In summary, President Tinubu’s call for a pan-African task force to combat illegal mining reflects a pressing need to safeguard Africa’s natural resources and bolster its economies against the detrimental impacts of informal mining practices. Addressing these issues collectively can enhance security, stability, and resource management across the continent.

Original Source: www.enca.com

The post Tinubu Calls for Pan-African Task Force to Address Illegal Mining first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has apprehended three Chinese nationals and two Nigerian individuals for illegal mining activities in Nasarawa State. This operation took place at an unauthorized mining site in Rafin-Gabas, Agwada, Kokona Local Government Area, as led by the mining marshals who were acting on credible intelligence. The suspects engaged in mining operations without proper authorization, extracting minerals such as fluorite, zinc, lead, and tin since December 15, 2021. Despite warnings to regularise their activities, they continued to exploit the country’s resources, which is contributing to significant revenue losses for the government. To date, over 200 illegal miners have been arrested throughout the nation, with approximately 140 currently facing prosecution. The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, reiterated the government’s commitment to reforming the mining sector and ensuring a secure environment for lawful investors.

Illegal mining poses a significant challenge to resource management and revenue generation in Nigeria. The government has established mining marshals to monitor and enforce compliance in the mining sector, aiming to curb unlawful activities that result in financial losses and environmental degradation. Recent arrests reflect a heightened effort to tackle illegal mining and regulate the industry to support legitimate investments.

The arrests of the Chinese and Nigerian nationals highlight ongoing efforts by the Nigerian government to combat illegal mining. With over 200 arrests and numerous prosecutions underway, the government is determined to reform the mining sector and protect its resources from unlawful exploitation.

Original Source: www.pulse.ng

The post Federal Government Arrests Five Suspects for Illegal Mining in Nasarawa first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.