Nigeria has always struggled with illegal mining, but a recent investigation in Kwara State is revealing that unlicensed intermediaries are exploiting the state’s natural wealth. The Kwara State government opened an investigation into the actions of people posing as state officers and collecting money at mining sites without giving it to the government after reading an investigative report published by Premium Times. Operating out of places like Bani and Kaiama, these intermediaries have exacerbated the problem of illegal mining and sharply decreased the state’s revenue from its mineral wealth.
Afeez Abolore Alabi, the Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, claims that the state’s attempts to control mining operations have been hampered by these unlawful acts. Kwara which confronts difficulties in regulating the operations of both legal and illicit miners despite having significant quantities of solid minerals, including gold. In order to crack down on these middlemen and bring responsibility back to the state’s mining operations, the commissioner has pledged to step up efforts in tandem with security authorities.
A stakeholders’ meeting has been arranged for later this year to outline a roadmap for strengthening the solid minerals sector as part of the state’s response. Together, representatives from security organisations, traditional leaders, and local communities will develop long-term solutions to stop illicit mining and bring back peace. With this initiative, Kwara is demonstrating its dedication to making sure that the state’s natural resources generate economic benefits while encouraging a more sustainable and regulated mining sector.
In the case of illicit mining Kwara’s crackdown, which has been causing environmental damage and economic loss, is an important step in regaining control over the state’s mining industry and making sure that its natural resources are managed responsibly.
