Boost in Revenue for FG Through Mining Marshals - Reported by Onoja
The Nigerian mining sector is witnessing a significant transformation, as efforts to curb illegal mining activities are yielding positive results. The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals, established a year ago, have been at the forefront of this battle.
According to Dele Ayanleke, the President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, illegal mining is sustained by corruption, poverty, and weak governance. This illicit activity is not only undermining legitimate investors but also destroying communities and fuelling insecurity. Ayanleke warns that it is one of Nigeria's most dangerous national security threats.
The NSCDC Mining Marshals have dismantled illegal mining camps, prosecuted offenders, and restored order in volatile mining corridors. Their efforts have led to a substantial increase in revenues accruing from the mining sector. The revenue from the sector has surged from N6 billion to over N38 billion since the establishment of the NSCDC Mining Marshals.
The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) estimates that Nigeria loses up to 9 billion dollars (N13.7 Trillion Naira) annually to illegal mining/gold smuggling. This staggering figure underscores the importance of the fight against illegal mining.
The NSCDC Mining Marshals are not alone in this fight. The NUJ (Nigerian Union of Journalists) is also playing a crucial role. The Chairman of NUJ FCT Council, Grace Ike, urges journalists to conduct investigative journalism that exposes financiers, amplifies community voices, and pressures policymakers. Ike also emphasises the NUJ's commitment to championing and amplifying the voices of affected communities to ensure their stories and struggles are heard nationwide.
However, illegal mining has become a powerful cartel-driven enterprise bankrolled by influential Nigerians. It is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. The NSCDC Mining Marshals, the media, and civil society organisations must continue to work together to combat this threat.
Illegal mining also has severe social costs. Child labor and mercury poisoning are among the severe costs of this activity, as highlighted by Ayanleke. The NSCDC Mining Marshals, in collaboration with other stakeholders, must ensure that the rights and welfare of miners, especially the vulnerable, are protected.
Over 72 suspects have been arrested in Abuja alone between 2023 and 2024 for illegal mining activities. This is a testament to the NSCDC Mining Marshals' relentless pursuit of justice. The NSCDC Mining Marshals also urge the media to join in the fight against illegal mining and caution against biased or compromised reportage.
In conclusion, the fight against illegal mining in Nigeria is gaining momentum. The NSCDC Mining Marshals, the media, and civil society organisations are working together to combat this threat and protect the rights and welfare of miners. However, more needs to be done to curb this menace and ensure a safe and sustainable mining sector for all Nigerians.
