Rita Odafe
Illegal mining operations have been identified as the primary cause of 80% of the insecurity prevalent in the North Western region of Nigeria according to Hon Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives. In a recent address, he emphasized the urgent need to address this issue, especially as it continues to perpetuate poverty and deprivation among local communities despite the potential economic benefits.
Illegal mining poses a significant socio-economic challenge in Nigeria, leading to ecosystem degradation and heightened poverty levels, particularly affecting peasant farmers who rely on natural resources for their livelihoods. Despite the country’s abundant solid mineral deposits, criminal elements have hijacked these resources, denying the nation and its people the prosperity they should bring.
Hon Tajudeen pointed out that an alarming 80% of mining activities in the North West region are conducted unlawfully, with the exploitation of untapped mineral reserves contributing to community unrest and violence. He expressed concern over the dire conditions faced by mining communities, such as economic neglect, environmental degradation, and pollution resulting from illegal and unsafe mining practices.
The Speaker stressed that the prevalence of illegal mining underscores deep-rooted social, institutional, and structural challenges in Nigeria. The ongoing investigative hearing seeks to provide recommendations on combating illegal mining and assessing the regulatory bodies’ effectiveness in enforcing mining standards.
He highlighted the House’s commitment to addressing illicit mining practices and ensuring compliance with industry standards within the solid minerals sector. As part of this commitment, a review of the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act (Amendment) Bill and the Nigeria Solid Mineral Development Company (Establishment) Bill is underway, culminating in a public hearing scheduled for July 17, 2024.
