In a bid to address the rampant issue of illegal mining, the House of Representatives has taken decisive action by declaring a state of emergency in the mining sector. The House has called on the Nigerian Government to allocate funds in the 2024 budget to establish Minerals Monitoring and Inspection Offices with skilled personnel, equipment, and infrastructure in all 109 senatorial districts across the country.
This crucial motion was tabled by Abdullahi Ibrahim Ali Halims in response to the urgent need to investigate illegal mining activities in the solid mineral sector. Recognizing the immense economic potential of Nigeria’s solid mineral sector in fueling development, expanding the revenue base, and diversifying the economy, the House is determined to address the challenges plaguing the sector.
The House notes that a report by NEITTI in 2022 revealed that the mining sector’s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was a mere 0.63 percent, equivalent to N1.10 trillion. Furthermore, the report disclosed that the solid minerals sector only accounted for 2.62 percent of the Nigerian Government’s total revenue of N6.63 trillion.
Expressing concern over the detrimental impacts of illegal mining on the environment, national security, and economic growth, the House is troubled by how unregulated and illicit mining operations cost the nation a staggering $9 billion annually. Shockingly, the only revenue derived from this sector comes from a 3 percent royalty paid by a handful of licensed miners, hindering the country’s ability to fully reap the benefits of its vast mineral resources.
In addition, illegal mining has given rise to conflicts over control of mining sites and their resources, exacerbating existing social and political tensions in affected communities and leading to increased insecurity. The proactive actions taken by the Governors of Taraba, Benue, and Nasarawa States, who have issued Executive Orders banning illegal mining in their respective states, exemplify the urgent need for the Federal Government to follow suit.
In light of these pressing concerns, the House has set in motion the creation of a special security task force. Comprising the Military, Directorate of State Services (DSS), Immigration, Civil Defence, and the Mines Police, this task force will embark on a comprehensive operation to eradicate illegal mining activities. The House has further mandated the Committee on Solid Minerals to ensure strict compliance with these measures.
By taking crucial steps to revitalize and develop the solid mineral sector, the Federal Government aims to unleash the immense potential of this critical sector for the benefit of the Nigerian economy and its citizens. It is imperative that action is taken now to safeguard the environment, boost economic growth, and foster a more secure and harmonious society.
