President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Nigerian military to intensify efforts in combating illegal mining operations across the country. This move aims to curb the illegal mining activities that are undermining the nation’s potential in the mining sector, which has the capacity to rival oil revenue in economic significance.
In a recent statement, President Tinubu highlighted the critical role mining can play in Nigeria’s economic diversification, noting the vast mineral wealth in the country, including gold, tin, and coal.
The President emphasized that tackling illegal mining is essential for maximizing the sector’s contribution to national revenue.
Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, has been at the forefront of efforts to enhance the sector’s performance. Under his guidance, the Mining Guard has been established and deployed to oversee and secure mining sites across Nigeria.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to curb criminal activities associated with illegal mining, which has been particularly problematic in regions such as Northwest Zamfara State, Northcentral areas like Niger, Nasarawa, and Plateau states, and Southwest states including Osun and Ondo.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu reiterated the urgency of addressing the illegal mining issue.
He praised the security agencies for their expertise and knowledge in handling such challenges and expressed confidence that their enhanced efforts would contribute to a more stable economic environment.
The President’s call to action underscores the government’s commitment to harnessing Nigeria’s mineral resources responsibly and effectively.