The Nigerian government has reaffirmed its commitment to clamp down on illegal mining activities, deeming it a grave offense that demands serious action.
At a gathering in Kaduna, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, represented by acting Zonal Mines Officer Kutman Ali, stressed the significance of adhering to proper licensing procedures. He urged mining operators to obtain a permit after securing their mining license, emphasizing that the permit serves as an introduction to state and local governments and communities, facilitating smoother mining operations.
Highlighting the financial stakes, Alake revealed that miners and operators across the country collectively owed the Federal Government over N2 trillion, with Kaduna State alone amassing a debt exceeding N300 billion. He urged operators in the state to promptly settle their outstanding debts.
The minister outlined his plans for the mining sector in 2024 and beyond, underscoring the revival of the Special Mines Surveillance Taskforce (SMSTF) to combat illegal mining and ensure the punctual payment of royalties and taxes.
Alake detailed the composition of the SMSTF, involving members from the Nigerian Army, Police, Civil Defence Corps, DSS, EFCC, and the Nigeria Immigration Service, with Mines Officers spearheading operations at the state level. He clarified that state and local governments lacked the authority to collect royalties or taxes on mining activities and encouraged reporting grievances to the nearest mines office for redress.
Responding to the minister’s plans, Ado Dogo, Chairman of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Kaduna State branch, emphasized the necessity for enhanced communication between miners and regulators to address existing challenges. Dogo raised concerns about undue interference by some state governors in mining activities and appealed to the minister to ensure compliance with constitutional jurisdictions.
Tanimu Abubakar, a former General Manager of the Kaduna State Public Works Agency, voiced worries about the multiple tax collections by both federal and state governments, advocating for a waiver of ground rent to attract more investors to the sector.
The government’s staunch position against illegal mining and its plans for the mining sector signals a critical move towards enforcing regulations and revitalizing the industry.
NAN
