The Senate Committee on Solid Minerals has warned that illegal mining is fueling insecurity and costing Nigeria billions of dollars.
Committee chairman Sampson Ekong made this statement during a visit to Niger State Governor Umar Bago to investigate a recent mining pit collapse in Shiroro, where heavy rain trapped several people on June 3.
Ekong highlighted, “The realization of the projected multi-billion-dollar minerals sector of Nigeria is exponentially threatened by illegal practices.” He added that unauthorized mining has brought new security challenges, urging cooperation to curb these activities and improve industry practices.
Governor Bago announced plans to sponsor a “responsible mining” bill, noting, “Artisanal mining has cost us loss of lives, it has cost us loss of properties. It has encouraged a lot of banditry and insecurity.” Bago outlined measures that would include community support such as potable water, health facilities, and better housing.
He called on the National Assembly for support, saying, “There is a need for us to have a very responsible mining regime, both at the federal and state level.”
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
