The House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals announced that Nigeria loses $9 billion annually due to illegal mining activities. This revelation came during a public hearing on Monday, where the committee investigated the issue.
Committee Chairman Jonathan Gaza Gbefwi highlighted that illegal mining has severely hindered the country’s ability to benefit from its mineral resources. The few licensed miners pay only a 3% royalty.
He pointed out that illegal mining has led to insecurity and violent conflicts over mining site control.
The Nigerian Army reported arresting 387 suspects connected to illegal mining in the past seven months. Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa and Director of Operations Air Vice Marshal Nnaemeka Ignatius Ilo noted that illegal miners are often protected by influential individuals and include foreign operatives.
The hearing also discussed proposed amendments to the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act and the establishment of the Nigeria Solid Minerals Development Company.