Some Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have stressed the need for stronger political will to combat illegal mining in Nigeria. Speaking with journalists on Sunday in Abuja, the CSOs warned that without firm political commitment, illegal mining would continue unchecked.
They pointed out that although the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act of 2007 prohibits unauthorised exploration or exploitation of mineral resources, its effective implementation hinges on political determination.
Philip Jakpor, Executive Director of Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI), emphasised that addressing the issue requires strict enforcement of the Mining Act.
“There are clear provisions in Nigeria’s Mining Act that prescribe how to address illegal mining in the country. The real issue, however, is the political will to enforce the laws from state to federal levels.
“As was revealed recently by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, the illegality in the sector thrives because of the alleged big men behind it.
“He had alleged that retired military officers are involved. We might also want to expand that to include traditional rulers and other unpatriotic elements in government and the communities where mining activities occur.
“Of recent, some Chinese nationals have also been implicated in the thriving illegal business,” he said.
Jakpor further argued that such illegal activities could not persist without the involvement of government collaborators who benefit from them and choose to turn a blind eye.
He called for the public exposure and prosecution of suspects to serve as a deterrent, enhance sectoral growth, and boost mining’s contribution to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Abdullahi Jabi, Chairman of the North-Central zone for the Campaign for Democracy, Human Rights Advocacy, and Civil Society of Nigeria, described illegal mining as a deeply rooted issue.
He attributed its persistence to the failure of political leaders and public officeholders to fulfil their constitutional responsibilities.
Jabi warned that without a well-enforced legal framework and stringent measures to hold offenders accountable, the challenge would remain unresolved.
Meanwhile, at the recent North East African Mineral Summit and Exhibition, mining expert Bashir Aliyu highlighted the role of undocumented immigrants in illegal mining.
“Illegal miners, including undocumented immigrants, are extracting mineral resources without licences or adherence to regulations.
“This unregulated activity deprives the government of revenue, damages the environment, and endangers local communities,” Aliyu stated.
He called for stricter regulations and increased community participation to protect mineral resources and curb illegal mining.
