The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has issued a 30-day ultimatum to illegal miners in Nigeria to join recognized mining cooperatives or face legal consequences. Additionally, the minister revealed plans to establish a surveillance task force, including police officers and relevant agencies, to secure mines in the country.
Illegal mining activities have been a concern in Nigeria, affecting the country’s mineral resources and potentially leading to economic losses. The government aims to curb these activities by encouraging illegal miners to join formal cooperatives and by enforcing mining laws more rigorously.
The surveillance task force, which will include a specialized Mine Police unit, is expected to proactively address breaches of mining laws and apprehend offenders. This initiative is part of the minister’s broader agenda to transform the solid minerals sector in Nigeria and ensure the responsible and sustainable extraction of mineral resources.
By providing a 30-day grace period and broadcasting the directive in multiple Nigerian languages, the government aims to raise awareness and encourage illegal miners to transition to legal and cooperative mining operations. After the grace period, those found on mining sites without a determinable legal status will face legal consequences.
Illegal mining activities have been a longstanding challenge in Nigeria, and addressing this issue is crucial to maximize the economic potential of the country’s mineral resources and promote responsible mining practices.