Illegal mining in Nigeria is costing the country $9 billion annually, with only 3% royalty being paid to the government by legally licensed miners. This revelation came to light during an investigative hearing organized by the House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals in Abuja.
Chairman Jonathan Gbefwi expressed concern over the impact of illegal mining on the economy and natural resources of the country. The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa, revealed that illegal miners are well-connected and difficult to apprehend, with the Nigerian Army having already arrested 387 individuals linked to illegal mining.
The event aimed to address under-reporting of mining wins, financial interventions in the solid minerals sector, and proposed amendments to the mining laws. Various stakeholders emphasized the need for tougher sanctions on illegal miners and highlighted the environmental degradation and socio-economic challenges caused by illicit mining activities.
As the country grapples with the detrimental effects of illegal mining, it is vital to strengthen institutional frameworks, enforce regulations, and ensure sustainable mineral resource management for the benefit of future generations.\
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