The Nigerian Senate has reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating illegal mining, which deprives the nation of crucial revenue while fueling insecurity and environmental degradation. The Senate’s approach emphasizes creating a safer, more regulated mining sector, one that could unlock Nigeria’s multi-billion-dollar mineral resources while supporting sustainable development.
This resolve was highlighted during a recent visit to Niger State by Senator Ekong, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals. This visit followed the tragic collapse of a mining pit in Shiroro, Niger State, which claimed about 30 lives and left many families grieving. During the visit, Ekong described illegal and unregulated mining as a significant threat to the nation’s mining sector, citing its role in undermining the sector’s growth and introducing severe environmental and public health risks due to the unsafe and unregulated practices employed by unauthorized miners.
Impact of Illegal Mining
Illegal mining in Nigeria is particularly troubling because it operates outside the boundaries of safety regulations, and miners often resort to crude techniques. Such methods not only endanger the miners themselves but also lead to environmental damage, as ecosystems around these sites suffer from contamination and deforestation. Besides the immediate physical dangers, illegal mining has been associated with severe long-term consequences, including soil degradation and water pollution, which harm agriculture and local water supplies. The economic toll is equally substantial; Nigeria’s solid minerals sector has the potential to diversify the economy and contribute significantly to the country’s GDP, yet illegal operations siphon off resources that should be supporting the national economy.
Ekong’s investigation into the mining sector aims to uncover the underlying issues perpetuating these illegal activities. He highlighted that the black-market nature of unauthorized mining directly fuels insecurity, as profits from these illicit activities can be used to support criminal elements within the country. According to Ekong, tackling illegal mining could curb these adverse effects and bring substantial economic benefits by allowing Nigeria to capitalize on its untapped mineral wealth. “Mining incidents like the one in Shiroro are far too common,” Ekong stated, stressing the urgency of coordinated actions to protect Nigeria’s resources and people.
Legislative Efforts for a Safer Mining Sector
The Senate is pushing for legislative reforms to support a more organized mining industry, with Ekong promising new laws that would ensure stringent safety standards and better oversight. These legislative changes aim to protect both miners and the environment, as well as to maximize the sector’s economic potential. Such reforms could also promote legal mining activities by providing a clear regulatory framework, encouraging more investment and formalized operations in the sector. The Senate envisions a future where legitimate mining operations contribute to sustainable development, providing steady revenue streams and creating jobs.
In addition to the federal government, state governments are also showing support for a revamped mining framework. Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State voiced the state’s readiness to work with the Senate and the National Assembly to develop and implement laws that would reform mining practices for the benefit of all stakeholders. He proposed the idea of “Responsible Mining,” an approach inspired by successful models in countries like Brazil. Under this model, mining companies would not only extract resources but also invest in the communities where they operate, by providing essential services like clean water, healthcare, and education. Such an approach could help mitigate the adverse effects of mining on local communities and foster goodwill between mining companies and residents.
A Tragic Reminder and a Call for Action
The mining pit collapse in Shiroro on June 3, 2024, underscores the human cost of Nigeria’s poorly regulated mining sector. The Senate delegation, led by Ekong, conveyed condolences to the families affected by this tragedy and lauded the Niger State government and the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals for their swift response. Nonetheless, the incident has intensified calls for more proactive measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Ekong’s statement to the Niger State community highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between local and federal authorities, suggesting that coordinated efforts could prevent further loss of life and foster a more resilient mining sector.
Ekong stressed that addressing illegal mining requires not only regulatory enforcement but also community support and a sense of shared responsibility. By involving local communities in the fight against illegal mining, the Senate hopes to gain grassroots backing, which could help in identifying and shutting down illegal operations. Additionally, strengthening enforcement measures and improving transparency within the sector could help to root out corruption and hold those who profit from illegal mining accountable.
The Promise of Economic Growth and Stability
Nigeria’s solid minerals sector is brimming with untapped potential. In a country that has traditionally relied on oil, a robust mining sector could provide much-needed economic diversification. Ekong emphasized that with the right policies and regulatory frameworks, Nigeria’s mineral resources could play a significant role in GDP growth and offer alternative revenue streams, especially in the face of fluctuating global oil prices. To achieve this, the Senate is working to encourage legitimate mining businesses that comply with safety and environmental standards, as these operations will contribute to long-term economic growth and job creation.
Governor Bago underscored this vision, noting that a responsible mining bill could address the risks associated with artisanal mining, which currently accounts for a significant portion of Nigeria’s mining activities. Artisanal mining, while a source of livelihood for many, often leads to deadly accidents and environmental degradation. By formalizing artisanal mining practices and ensuring miners are trained and equipped with safety gear, the government can make these small-scale operations safer and more productive. Bago expressed optimism that such reforms would help prevent further tragedies like the Shiroro incident and ultimately lead to a more sustainable and inclusive mining industry.
A Shared Responsibility
The Senate’s commitment to eliminating illegal mining is a step toward safeguarding Nigeria’s resources for future generations. By fostering partnerships with state governments and local communities, the Senate hopes to implement a collaborative approach that tackles illegal mining from multiple angles. This multi-faceted approach involves not only strict enforcement and legislative reforms but also community engagement and public awareness campaigns aimed at highlighting the dangers and economic losses associated with illegal mining.
As Nigeria embarks on this journey to transform its mining sector, the focus remains on building an industry that is safe, profitable, and environmentally sustainable. The Senate’s vision for the sector encompasses not only economic gains but also social responsibility, as mining operations will be required to support the communities they operate in. By channeling resources toward responsible and regulated mining, Nigeria can develop a resilient mining sector that contributes meaningfully to the country’s development and enhances the well-being of its citizens.
In summary, the Nigerian Senate’s drive to eliminate illegal mining activities reflects a strategic commitment to revitalize the country’s mining sector. Through legislative reforms, strengthened enforcement, and the promotion of responsible mining practices, the Senate envisions a future where Nigeria’s mineral wealth can be harnessed safely, sustainably, and profitably for the benefit of all.
