The Federal Government has disclosed that a total of 457 illegal mining sites have been identified across Nigeria within the past year, a revelation that underscores the scale of unregulated mineral exploitation threatening the country’s economy and security.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, made this known during a press briefing in Abuja. He emphasized that the growing spate of illegal mining activities has not only led to significant revenue losses for the nation but has also fueled insecurity in many rural communities. According to him, these sites are mostly operated by non-licensed individuals and syndicates who exploit mineral resources without remitting any benefits to the government or host communities.
Dr. Alake reiterated that the ministry is not resting on its oars in tackling the menace. He revealed that a special task force, led by the Commander of the Mining Marshals, Major General K.O. Kadiri (Rtd), has been deployed to comb affected regions and apprehend perpetrators. The task force, in collaboration with state security agencies, is already conducting surveillance and clampdown operations in high-risk areas such as Zamfara, Niger, Osun, and parts of the North-Central zone.
The Minister also warned traditional rulers and local authorities who connive with illegal miners, stating that anyone found aiding or abetting such unlawful activities would face the full wrath of the law. He appealed to Nigerians to report suspicious mining activities and support the government’s bid to sanitize the sector.
Industry watchers say the government’s renewed commitment could open the door for increased investment in formal mining operations and ensure that the sector contributes more significantly to national revenue.
