The Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development is pushing for stricter laws to curb illegal mining activities in Nigeria. The committee expressed this stance on Tuesday during a visit to the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in Abuja.
In July, the House of Representatives revealed that Nigeria loses $9 billion annually due to illegal mining. Ekong Sampson, Chair of the Committee, affirmed the Senate’s commitment to helping the federal government fully harness the sector’s potential.
“Illegal miners not only reduce government revenue but also obstruct oversight. By introducing tougher legal measures, we can create a mining industry free from unauthorized operations,” Sampson said.
He added that a policy review is underway, exploring ways to increase government revenue. “Through proper consultations and collaboration, we can strengthen the economy,” he said. Sampson also emphasised the importance of working together, noting that with a dedicated Nigerian minister and the National Assembly’s support, the sector has a promising future.
Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, highlighted that the ministry has already generated significant revenue for the country. “We have collected over N17 billion, a major increase compared to 2023. Just two weeks ago, we secured a N2.7 billion forfeiture from an illegal mining operation,” Alake reported.
The minister pledged to continue collaborating with the National Assembly to further grow Nigeria’s solid minerals sector for the nation’s benefit.