Business is booming.

Why FG hasn’t stopped the illegal mining – Minister

By Yemi Olakitan

Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Olamilekan Adegbite, on Tuesday said the country’s size made it impossible for the government to stop illicit miners from operating.

Adegbite made this disclosure during his appearance on the Arise TV Morning Show on Tuesday. He clarified that although the country could not stop illicit mining operations, when they were discovered, they would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

He said, “Nigeria is a fairly big country, thus illegal mining is a concern there. Given the size of Nigeria, I must be honest and tell you that we lack the resources necessary to halt all of these illegal activities.

“Despite this, we react to it very well because we have been monitoring the locals, through the states and all that, and the security guys are aiding us. Many of the nationals you identified have been detained by us, and we have filed charges against them. We collaborate with organisations like customs and immigration. Together, we’re tightening the noose. The minister pleaded with Nigerians to help the government stop illegal miners’ activities.

“Whenever we are made aware of actions, we are left in charge and are supported by security services.

“Because Nigeria is a large country and I am unable to publicly state that we have the capacity to prevent this because we can’t be everywhere at once, I truly confess that there is some unlawful activity everywhere. It’s not feasible.”

The minister pointed out that the ministry used a satellite surveillance system to keep a close eye on unlawful activity.
He said although artisan mining is Nigeria’s main industry, other aspects of the country still require improvement.

“Yes, they achieved their goal, which is why the government did not enact a law against it. We don’t want to uproot these folks, put them out of a job, and cause problems for the families,” he said.

He added that until major companies participate in the sector, Nigeria won’t start to realise its full potential. He added that this might happen if the industry is derisked through intervention initiatives that would promote investment.

Having information on the whereabouts of each mineral in the nation, he continued, would make it simple for investors to invest, support the sector’s expansion, and increase its contribution to the GDP.

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