Lawmaker Sounds Alarm: Illegal Mining Fueling Insecurity in Nigeria
Senator Ekong Sampson, representing Akwa Ibom South senatorial district at the National Assembly, has raised concerns over the growing security threats fueled by illegal mining activities across Nigeria. He emphasized that collaboration between Nigerians and foreign entities has led to the exploitation of the nation’s mining resources for fraudulent purposes.
In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Mr. Samuel Udoma, on Tuesday, Senator Sampson pledged to ramp up investigations into the mining sector to safeguard the interests of the country.
As the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, Sampson highlighted the importance of reviewing and streamlining mining operations to revitalize the solid minerals sector.
Last year, the Senate passed resolutions tasking the Solid Minerals Committee with investigating the root causes of declining revenue from solid minerals development, scrutinizing the actions of policy administrators and industry players, and evaluating the impact of illegal mining activities.
Additionally, the committee was directed to examine the involvement of local and foreign actors in these activities and review all privatization or commercialization programs related to mining and mineral resources dating back to 1999.
Senator Sampson’s commitment underscores the Senate’s determination to address challenges within the mining sector and ensure its sustainable development for the benefit of the nation.
“The Senate condemned seriously the attitude of some Nigerians who collude with unscrupulous foreign elements to rip the country of its mineral wealth, without the corresponding accruals to national revenue.
“The Senate is also alarmed at the security problems posed by illegal mining in the country and has vowed to intensify investigations into the management of the sector, in the interest of the country.
“We will continue to intensify efforts aimed at reviewing and streamlining mining activities in order to reposition the solid minerals sector,” the statement said.
The committee chairman, expressing concern over the recent Ibadan explosion attributed to irresponsible and illegal mining practices, emphasized that disjointed mining activities have emerged as a significant security threat in Nigeria, posing risks to lives and property.
He affirmed his committee’s determination to eradicate illegal mining and initiate a comprehensive review of the existing Mining Act to enact appropriate legislation aligned with global standards.
Senator Sampson strongly criticized the conduct of certain industry participants in the mining sector who disregarded invitations from the committee and even resorted to threats of legal action upon being summoned for discussions.
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He asserted the Senate’s unwavering commitment to conducting thorough investigations, undeterred by petitions filed by some of these operators.
Senator Sampson also revealed plans to convene regular roundtable discussions involving relevant agencies, experts, industry stakeholders, artisanal miners, and other concerned parties. These gatherings will facilitate collaborative efforts to strategize on enhancing operations within the sector.
