Senate Commits to Eradicating Illegal Mining in Nigeria

Senate Commits to Eradicating Illegal Mining in Nigeria

The Nigerian Senate has pledged to eradicate illegal mining activities that have been depriving the federal government of substantial revenue while contributing to food and physical insecurity nationwide.

In alignment with this commitment, the Senate aims to foster a safer and more profitable mining sector.

Over the weekend, Senator Ekong, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, led a delegation to Niger State to investigate the recent collapse of a mining pit that resulted in approximately 30 fatalities.

During the visit, Ekong highlighted that illegal and unregulated mining operations significantly hinder the multi-billion-dollar potential of Nigeria’s minerals sector, as unauthorized miners often employ unsafe and environmentally damaging practices.

“Illegal mining practices, utilizing crude methods with little regard for safety, continue to undermine the potential of our mining sector and threaten public health and the environment,” Ekong stated. “The Senate is committed to creating legislative solutions that will enhance the growth and safety of Nigeria’s mining industry.”

In response, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State expressed the state’s willingness to collaborate with the National Assembly on reforms to the mining sector that would benefit all stakeholders, including the federal and state governments, local communities, and miners. Bago introduced a “Responsible Mining” initiative, inspired by successful models from Brazil, which would require mining companies to provide community support such as access to clean water, healthcare, and education to mitigate the impacts of their operations.

Ekong took the opportunity to extend condolences to the people of Niger State for the tragic June 3, 2024, mining site collapse in Shiroro, which caused significant loss of life and displaced many families. He commended the Niger State Government and the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals for their prompt response to the disaster and called for additional support for the affected families.

“Incidents like the one in Shiroro are far too frequent, and the sector loses significant revenue daily due to unauthorized, black-market mining that also contributes to insecurity,” Ekong remarked. “We must work together to address these issues and safeguard our national resources.”

He underscored the economic potential of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, noting that tackling illegal mining could generate substantial revenue, diversify the economy, and enhance Nigeria’s GDP.

Governor Bago assured the Senate of Niger State’s commitment to promoting responsible mining practices. “Artisanal mining has led to loss of life and property and has exacerbated insecurity. A responsible mining bill will ensure that mining activities are sustainable and beneficial to communities,” he stated.

The Senate delegation included Senators Diket Plang, Amos Yohanna, Professor Anthony Ani, Okechukwu Ezea, and Sani Musa, who initially brought attention to the Shiroro tragedy. The committee plans to maintain close collaboration with local and federal stakeholders to develop a safe, sustainable mining industry that benefits the Nigerian economy and protects all involved.