Senate panel: Stiff laws will check illegal mining in Nigeria

The senate committee on solid minerals development says stiff laws will check illegal mining activities in the country.

The panel took the position on Tuesday when it visited the federal ministry of solid minerals development in Abuja.

In July, the house of representatives said the country was losing $9bn annually to illegal mining.

Ekong Sampson, chair of the committee, said the senate is committed to ensuring that the federal government maximizes the full potential of the sector.

“Illegal operators not only undermine revenue but also disrupt oversight functions. By enacting stronger legal measures, we can create a mining environment free from unauthorised activities,” he said.

“What you need to know is that there is going to be a review of policy. We are exploring trajectories to ramp up revenue for the government. Through proper consultations and collaboration, we need to firm up the economy.

“So we are committed to working together and the important thing is that this sector needs attention and having a very committed Nigerian as minister, working closely with the national assembly, better days are ahead.

“Together with the ministry and through active collaboration, we are confident in our ability to drive sustainable development in this essential sector.”

On his part, Dele Alake, minister of solid minerals development, said his ministry has generated significant revenue for the country.

“The report of our revenue collection is also there,” Alake said.

“We have recorded over N17 billion and if you compare that with the performance in 2023, you will see a quantum leap and about two weeks ago, we were able to secure a N2.7 billion forfeiture from an illegal operator engaging in illegal mining operation.”

The minister said he would work with the national assembly to boost the solid minerals sector to the advantage of the country.