In an effort to revitalize Nigeria’s mining industry, the Federal Government has detained 300 illicit miners nationwide, according to Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dele Alake.
This was disclosed by Alake on Thursday in Abuja during a strategic briefing for the House Committee on Solid Minerals’ Oversight visit at the Ministry’s Headquarters.
During the tour, Alake unveiled a number of revolutionary initiatives meant to revitalize Nigeria’s mining industry.
The minister highlighted the advancements made in safeguarding Nigeria’s mining operations, discouraging illicit activity, and establishing the industry as a pillar of economic growth, all while keeping a laser-like focus on the overall seven-point plan.
The minister attributed the advancement to President Bola Tinubu’s proactive assistance, which has facilitated a successful interministerial partnership with the Ministry of Interior and ensured prompt deployment of troops and resources to safeguard mining areas.
A more robust security structure aimed at preventing illegal mining, a persistent issue that has endangered both local people and Nigeria’s reputation internationally, is in the vanguard of this change. Nearly 300 unlawful operators, including foreign nationals, have been captured since more than 2,000 trained mine marshals were deployed, greatly lowering the amount of illicit mining activity occurring nationwide.
“The impact of this updated security architecture is already significant. In addition to being a commitment to Nigeria’s stability, our efforts to protect our mining sites are also an invitation to investors looking for trustworthy alliances,” he stated.
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The minister discussed the ministry’s goal of making Nigeria a global center for minerals in addition to enhancing security.
According to him, focused outreach initiatives have been successful in grabbing the attention of top foreign investors, setting up Nigeria’s mineral industry for future collaborations that could benefit both parties.
He thanked Nigeria’s legislative authorities and other important partners for their continued support, highlighting how their collective efforts are strengthening the sector’s basis.
