Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals, has attributed the occurrence of illegal mining operations and acts of terrorism in various regions of the nation to influential individuals within Nigerian society. On Tuesday, Alake, accompanied by a group of high-ranking ministry officials, raised an accusation as he headed a team to justify the budget projections for 2024 in front of the House Committee on Solid Minerals at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja. He further mentioned that while there may be an external aspect involved in the ongoing banditry plaguing the nation, he pointed out that the primary financiers are Nigerian individuals who remain anonymous.
The individuals responsible for the unlawful mining activities, often referred to as illegal miners, are fortified by Nigerians in positions of power. He said that the efforts to expose and apprehend these culprits involve various methods, both physical and non-physical. It is crucial to acknowledge that the heightened insecurity prevailing in mining regions is driven by these illegal mining operations, which are predominantly backed by influential Nigerian figures, he stated. He emphasized the importance of establishing a formal framework for the mining industry, similar to the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Ltd., in order to ensure adequate revenue generation.
Mining cooperation framework will involve private sector.
Despite this, he emphasized that the ministry, under his guidance, would adopt a distinct approach from NNPCL. He mentioned that the proposed framework for Nigeria Mining Cooperation would primarily rely on participation from the private sector. He further mentioned that Nigeria’s equity would also be included, ensuring that the structure remains stable and untouched by any future government. Alake estimated the value of minerals stored in the country as a substantial $700 billion, emphasizing that Nigeria has not yet effectively exploited certain globally in-demand solid minerals due to obstacles within its institutions.
He passionately implored the committee’s endorsement of the procedure, emphasizing the potential for transforming the nation’s mining industry. In averting potential disruptions and maintaining law and order, he further emphasized the need for active involvement with the host communities across the nation where mining operations occur. In his plea, he implored the committee to give due attention to the ministry’s designated funding in the forthcoming 2024 budget proposal. The organization currently possesses ₦24 billion, which is insufficient to make any significant impact, he said. In order for our Ministry to make a substantial contribution of at least 50 percent towards the nation’s GDP, a substantial sum of ₦250bn is required to fund exploration activities adequately.
Assurance that the ministry will make money for the country.
With such a substantial investment, the minister assures that the ministry will surpass other ministries in terms of contributions, even exceeding what the country currently derives from oil. Allowing the private sector to spearhead exploration would be unwise, as it invariably leads to their intention of solely capitalizing on discoveries, withholding some data for financial gains. He added that if the agency were granted the proposed budget, it could replenish the country’s coffers with trillions in revenue. The nation has been indicated by him to possess more than 44 highly sought-after minerals, which are currently in high demand worldwide.
Highlighting the crucial role of the solid minerals sector in achieving economic diversification, Committee Head Gaza Gbefwi emphasized its significance. Expressing vehement disagreement with the budget projections for the ministry, Gbefwi deemed them significantly inadequate. Furthermore, he assured the committee’s unwavering commitment to mobilize all available resources, ensuring additional funding to bolster the implementation of Alake’s comprehensive 7-point plan. The assurance underscores the committee’s determination to bridge financial gaps and facilitate the realization of strategic initiatives for the solid minerals industry, underscoring the pivotal role it plays in Nigerian economic diversification agenda.
Detrimental effects of illegal mining in Nigeria.
Illegal mining poses a significant challenge in Nigeria, with various regions grappling with its detrimental effects on the economy and the environment. The clandestine extraction of minerals, often carried out without proper authorization or adherence to environmental regulations, leads to revenue loss for the government and exacerbates environmental degradation. The absence of stringent enforcement measures contributes to the proliferation of illegal mining activities, impacting both local communities and the nation at large. Efforts to curb this menace necessitate a multi-faceted approach, including heightened surveillance, stricter regulatory frameworks, and community engagement to address the root causes of illegal mining in Nigeria.
Related Link
Wikipedia: Website
