Illegal Mining Responsible For 80 Percent Of Insecurity In Northwest – House Of Reps Speaker

On Monday, July 15, Abbas Tajudeen, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, stated that the actions of illegal miners are responsible for almost 80% of the present instability in the North Western region of Nigeria.

The Speaker bemoaned that despite the possible advantages for nearby towns, locals nonetheless live in extreme poverty and hardship as she opened an investigative hearing on unlawful mining in the solid minerals sector.

He stressed how urgent action was required. Tajudeen emphasised that the destruction of ecosystems and rising rates of poverty in Nigeria are direct results of illicit mining, particularly for peasant farmers who depend on the environment for their livelihoods.

He pointed out that Nigeria has abundant mineral resources, which ought to benefit both the nation and its people. Nevertheless, criminal elements have primarily plundered the riches derived from these resources.

“Reports indicate that an estimated 80% of mining in the North West region is carried out illegally,” the Speaker said, pointing to the mining of largely untapped mineral deposits as a root cause of community violence.

Tajudeen voiced worry over the terrible circumstances in many mining areas, which are plagued by pollution from risky mining techniques by illegal miners, significant environmental degradation, and economic and social neglect. He pointed out that the destruction of economic trees, crops, and farmlands by illicit mining operations has decreased the utility and value of these resources for locals.

The speaker made a point of saying that Nigeria faces basic institutional, social, and structural issues that are brought to light by the growth of illicit mining. The purpose of the hearing is to evaluate the role of regulators in guaranteeing adherence to mining procedures and to offer recommendations on mitigating the threat of illicit mining.

He claimed that the House’s move to look into illicit mining shows its dedication to combating unethical mining practices and standards-breaking in the solid minerals industry. A public hearing for the Nigeria Solid Mineral Development Company (Establishment) Bill and the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act (Amendment) Bill is set for July 17, 2024.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli