Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has announced a suspension of all mining activities in the state as a measure against escalating security issues. The decision, formalised in Executive Order 001 of 2025, was made public on Saturday in Jos.

The governor cited rising illegal mining activities, security threats, and an influx of unregulated foreign miners as key concerns. This situation has led to increases in criminal activities such as banditry, kidnapping, drug trafficking, and possession of illegal firearms.

As the state’s Chief Security Officer, Mutfwang underscored the need for the suspension to protect citizens’ security and well-being. The order limits mining site access to licensed operators, aiming to curb further criminal actions.

Effective from 21st February, the governor detailed plans for collaboration with Federal and Local Governments to establish a monitoring framework. This effort will involve host communities and mineral rights holders to support responsible resource management.

A comprehensive security review of mining areas will be conducted, alongside the creation of Community Development Agreements (CDA) to ensure socio-economic benefits for local communities.

Mutfwang also inaugurated a Technical Committee on Mining Reform, chaired by Mr Philemon Dafi, the state’s Commissioner for Justice. This committee includes other commissioners and stakeholders from the mining sector, tasked with overseeing reforms in the industry.

The Plateau State government, under Governor Caleb Mutfwang, has suspended mining activities to address security concerns linked to illegal mining and criminal activities. The initiative includes establishing a monitoring framework and creating benefits for local communities, highlighting a commitment to improving mining regulations and ensuring safety.

Original Source: www.pulse.ng

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Nasarawa Governor Abdullahi Sule has called for the deregulation of Nigeria’s mining sector to enhance its potential. Speaking at the 60th Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society Annual Conference in Abuja, he advocated for reforms akin to those in the oil and gas industry, emphasising the need for modernization and liberalisation to attract investment.

Governor Sule highlighted Nigeria’s abundant mineral resources and criticized existing policies that impede growth. Reflecting on his oil industry experience, he underscored the importance of structured revenue-sharing and industry regulations to secure adequate returns for mining states.

During his term, he discovered that despite 416 mining licenses granted in Nasarawa, the state was receiving no significant financial returns, prompting him to challenge the National Economic Council regarding the lack of revenue compared to the oil sector. Recognising flaws in the licensing process, he issued an executive order to ensure that all minerals processed in the state before export, which boosted local investments.

He proudly noted that Nasarawa State now hosts Nigeria’s largest lithium processing plant and several other smaller tin mining operations. Governor Sule urged Nigeria to shift focus towards long-term industrialisation over short-term financial gains, drawing comparisons to China’s approach to mining development.

Sule remains determined to overcome resistance to regulations that would ultimately benefit the sector and the economy. Professor Akinade Olatunji, President of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, acknowledged the governor’s contributions to advancing mining reforms in Nigeria, culminating in a fellowship award presented to him during the event.

Governor Abdullahi Sule’s call for the deregulation of Nigeria’s mining sector underlines his commitment to modernising the industry. By improving revenue-sharing mechanisms and enforcing operational regulations, he aims to harness the nation’s mining potential for sustainable growth and investment. His proactive measures reflect a determined effort to transform the sector into a vital component of Nigeria’s economy.

Original Source: dailypost.ng

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Dr Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, underscored Nasarawa state’s critical role in enhancing Nigeria’s mining sector during a meeting with Governor Abdullahi Sule and Minister of Defence Abubakar Badaru. He highlighted Nasarawa as a mining hub, especially for lithium, and emphasised the need for ongoing collaboration to exploit the state’s mineral wealth effectively.

Nasarawa state is known for its extensive mineral resources, particularly lithium, positioning it as a pivotal area for mining efforts in Nigeria. Recent reforms in the country’s mining sector have sparked increasing interest from global investors. However, challenges such as insecurity remain, prompting the need for enhanced cooperation among state and federal officials to support mining activities while addressing security concerns.

The emphasis on collaboration between governmental bodies is crucial for advancing mining activities in Nasarawa, particularly amidst ongoing security challenges. The commitment by officials to address these issues signifies a robust strategy towards unlocking the state’s minerals potential for national growth. Overall, sustained cooperation is imperative for the mining sector’s success in Nigeria.

Original Source: blueprint.ng

The post Nasarawa State: Key to Nigeria’s Mining Future, Says Minister Alake first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have set forth their strategic operational plans for 2025, prioritising intensified on-ground operations, enhanced compliance with regulations, and a renewed effort against illegal mining. They will collaborate closely with the Mining Cadastre Office to improve their operational effectiveness.

In a recent statement, Babawale Afolabi, the corps spokesperson, reflected on the Director-General of the Mining Cadastre Office, Obadiah Nkom’s commendation of the mining marshals’ resilience. Despite challenges, they have maintained professionalism and dedication to protect the nation’s economy from illegal activities.

Nkom highlighted the significant role of the NSCDC mining marshals in promoting the mining sector’s growth, enhancing national economic development and environmental sustainability. He praised Dr. Ahmed Audi for leading transformative changes within the corps.

The mining sector will benefit from planned technological upgrades, including automated services and improved licence verification processes to ensure transparency and better regulatory compliance, according to the Mining Cadastre Office.

Squad Commander AC John Attah assured that the NSCDC mining marshals are committed to addressing illegal mining operations. They pledged to safeguard licensed mineral holders, facilitating access to their resources without disruptions, while emphasising collaboration with the Cadastre Office to mitigate environmental and community issues related to unlawful mining.

Illegal mining has been a persistent problem in Nigeria, undermining the economy and environmental integrity. The NSCDC Mining Marshals are tasked with enforcing regulations and combating illegal activities in the mining sector. Their collaboration with the Mining Cadastre Office is essential for streamlined operations and protection of legitimate miners. The 2025 operational plans aim to enhance their effectiveness through strategic initiatives.

The NSCDC Mining Marshals are intensifying efforts against illegal mining through collaborative and strategic approaches. Their commitment to operational improvement and regulatory compliance highlights their crucial role in protecting the nation’s economic and environmental interests. Leadership under Dr. Ahmed Audi signals a transformative phase for the corps in the fight against illegal miners.

Original Source: punchng.com

The post NSCDC Unveils Plans to Combat Illegal Mining in 2025 first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have launched their 2025 Strategic Operational Plans aimed at strengthening field operations and enhancing regulatory compliance. The initiative also focuses on combating illegal mining and collaborating with the Mining Cadastre Office to ensure effective legal actions against offenders.

Director-General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office, Obadiah Nkom, praised the professionalism and bravery of the Mining Marshals, highlighting their role in protecting the nation’s economy from illegal activities. He acknowledged their resilience in the face of threats and corruption, confirming their importance in national development.

Nkom credited Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi for transforming the mining sector under the NSCDC’s guidance, reinforcing its position against illegal mining that affects economic growth and environmental sustainability. Squad Commander John Attah received promises of support for automation and improved regulatory frameworks to ensure smoother operations in the sector.

Attah reiterated the NSCDC’s commitment to intensifying efforts against illegal mining and safeguarding the rights of legitimate mineral titleholders. He stated that the renewed partnerships will address the environmental impacts and community issues that arise from unauthorized mining activities across Nigeria.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) operates Mining Marshals dedicated to enforcing mining regulations and curbing illegal mining activities throughout the country. These efforts not only aim to protect the economy but also focus on ensuring sustainable mining practices in Nigeria. The announcement of the 2025 Strategic Operational Plans signals a proactive approach to tackling existing challenges in the sector.

The NSCDC Mining Marshals are set to enhance their strategies by 2025, focusing on improved operational efficiency and compliance in the mining industry. With high praise for their resilience, leadership, and commitment, this initiative aims to strengthen the fight against illegal mining while safeguarding legitimate operations and addressing critical environmental challenges.

Original Source: von.gov.ng

The post NSCDC Mining Marshals Launch 2025 Plans to Combat Illegal Mining first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have presented their operational strategies for 2025, prioritising robust field actions, improved compliance with regulations, and intensified efforts against illegal mining. They plan to collaborate closely with the Mining Cadastre Office to enhance their operational effectiveness.

The statement from NSCDC spokesperson Babawale Afolabi highlighted commendations from Obadiah Nkom, the Director-General of the Mining Cadastre Office, who praised the marshals’ perseverance in tackling illegal mining, despite numerous challenges. Nkom emphasised their commitment to protecting the nation’s economy from illegal activities.

Illegal mining poses significant risks to Nigeria’s economy and environment. The NSCDC aims to combat this issue through robust strategies and collaborations, ensuring the protection of legitimate mining operations. The 2025 plan underscores the importance of regulatory compliance and community engagement to address the consequences of unregulated mining activities.

The NSCDC Mining Marshals remain dedicated to eradicating illegal mining in Nigeria through a comprehensive approach that includes enhanced collaboration and effective regulatory measures. Their commitment to protecting legitimate miners and promoting environmental sustainability is crucial for national economic growth.

Original Source: punchng.com

The post NSCDC Reveals Strategic 2025 Plan Against Illegal Mining first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.

The Federal Government has mandated the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) to enhance its performance within a 90-day timeframe, or face penalties. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, expressed dissatisfaction with the committee’s ability to mediate between stakeholders in the mining sector, failing to fulfill its statutory obligations. Under the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act of 2007, MIREMCO is meant to oversee compliance among operators with environmental regulations, which has evidently not been the case. Dr. Alake warned that failure to meet expectations would prompt federal intervention to restore effective management of mineral resources in Nigeria.

The government is also focusing on bolstering the mining sector by establishing six mineral centres across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones. This initiative accompanies a new policy aimed at ensuring that mineral extraction activities contribute maximum value to the economy by enforcing that mining applications include plans for local processing and value addition. Ongoing challenges such as limited active mining projects and funding constraints were highlighted by the Director General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office, Obadiah Nkom.

The Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) is a regulatory body under the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act of 2007, tasked with ensuring compliance and mediating between stakeholders, including local communities and mining operators. Currently, there are issues surrounding its effectiveness, which has resulted in governmental dissatisfaction. In addition, the Nigerian government aims to improve the mining sector significantly, seeking to add local value to extracted resources and develop local industries to tackle economic losses.

The Federal Government’s ultimatum to MIREMCO aims to enhance oversight and compliance in the mining sector, reflecting a commitment to effectively manage Nigeria’s mineral resources. With a 90-day deadline set for improvements, the initiative underscores the need for strong institutional frameworks and policies that promote local value addition, which will ultimately benefit the economy and local communities.

Original Source: nairametrics.com

The post Federal Government Issues 90-Day Ultimatum to MIREMCO for Performance Improvement first appeared on Nigerian Mining News.