The Nigerian Senate has vowed to eliminate illegal mining activities that have been depriving the federal government of significant revenue and contributing to food and physical insecurity across the country. As part of its commitment, the Senate also aims to establish a safer and more profitable mining sector.
Over the weekend, Senator Ekong, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, led a delegation to Niger State to investigate the recent collapse of a mining pit that claimed around 30 lives. During the visit, Ekong emphasized that illegal and unregulated mining operations are major obstacles to realizing the multi-billion-dollar potential of Nigeria’s minerals sector, with unauthorized miners using unsafe and environmentally harmful practices.
He highlighted the economic potential of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, noting that curbing illegal mining could generate substantial revenue, diversify the economy, and boost Nigeria’s GDP.