The Federal Government has arrested 300 illegal miners nationwide as part of efforts to revitalise Nigeria’s mining sector, a move revealed during a strategic briefing with the House Committee on Solid Minerals. The meeting took place on Thursday at the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development’s headquarters in Abuja, where Minister Dr. Dele Alake outlined key reforms aimed at transforming the sector.
The minister highlighted the government’s comprehensive 7-point agenda, focusing on securing mining operations, combating illegal activities, and fostering economic growth through the mining industry. Dr. Alake shared that over 2,000 trained mine marshals have been deployed, leading to the apprehension of nearly 300 illegal miners, including foreign nationals, which has significantly reduced unauthorized mining activities.
“The support of President Bola Tinubu has been instrumental in fostering inter-ministerial cooperation, allowing us to quickly mobilize resources to protect our mining regions,” Dr. Alake said. He emphasized that the new security measures are already yielding positive results, with fewer illegal mining operations and a renewed sense of stability in the sector. “This progress is not just about securing mining sites; it’s about ensuring Nigeria remains a trusted partner for investors,” he added.
In addition to enhanced security, the ministry is focusing on positioning Nigeria as a global hub for mineral processing and value-added production. Dr. Alake outlined how this approach not only retains wealth within the country but is also setting a trend across Africa, culminating in the creation of the African Mineral Strategy Group.
The minister expressed optimism about the growing international interest in Nigeria’s mineral resources, noting that increased investment and revenue are positioning the sector as a key driver of sustainable development.
Dr. Alake also acknowledged the vital role of Nigeria’s legislative bodies in supporting these initiatives. “With the backing of the legislature and key stakeholders, we are building a strong foundation for the sector,” he said. He added that the government’s ongoing reforms are paving the way for Nigeria’s mining sector to significantly contribute to the country’s GDP.
Hon. Garza Gbefwi, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals Development, expressed the committee’s commitment to promoting transparency, growth, and support for the mining sector. He noted that the committee has been engaging directly with agencies under the ministry’s oversight to address challenges and accelerate development. One key issue highlighted was the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency’s (NGSA) financial constraints, particularly its need for funding to generate reliable geological data for mineral exploration.
The chairman called for increased funding to support both the NGSA and the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF), which would help drive the sector forward. He also emphasized the importance of addressing community consent in the mining licensing process, advocating for a transparent and inclusive framework to minimize conflicts and promote peaceful, sustainable growth.
Hon. Gbefwi recognized the ministry’s progress under Dr. Alake’s leadership, particularly in advancing the 7-point agenda, and reaffirmed the committee’s support for the ministry’s efforts to make Nigeria’s solid minerals sector a major contributor to the economy.
Dr. Folake Ogbe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, thanked the committee for its ongoing advocacy and support. She highlighted that the ministry’s recent advancements, particularly in policy and community relations, are the result of a strong partnership with the committee. “With continued collaboration, we can achieve our shared objectives of increasing the sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s economic sustainability,” Dr. Ogbe said.
She also noted that the ministry will continue to rely on the committee’s support in overcoming challenges, securing necessary resources, and enhancing operations across its agencies. Dr. Ogbe reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to fostering a transparent, efficient, and growth-oriented environment for the solid minerals sector, aiming to create jobs and contribute to Nigeria’s economic diversification.