Only the decentralisation of mining and establishment of a national mineral intelligence and surveillance center can effectively curb illegal mining of mineral resources in the northern part of the country, an expert in the mining industry, Anyasodor Hayes, has said.
According to Hayes, the vast mineral wealth of Northern Nigeria, encompassing gold, gemstones, barite, lead, zinc, lithium, and tantalite, has become a double-edged sword, causing insecurity rather than fostering economic growth.
”Instead of fueling economic growth and development, these resources have ignited a crisis of illegal mining, threatening the very fabric of the region’s stability and security. The consequences are dire: environmental degradation, public health disasters, and a surge in insecurity that undermines national progress, he said.
“The crisis of illegal mining in Northern Nigeria demands a comprehensive and integrated solution. The region’s mineral wealth can catalyze growth and development, but only if it is harnessed sustainably and responsibly. To achieve this, there is a need to address the root causes of illegal mining, including governance failures, lack of effective regulation, and limited economic opportunities for local communities.”
Expatiating further, Hayes said: ”This illegal mining activity in Northern Nigeria has reached epidemic proportions, unleashing poverty, high rate of unemployment, and weak institutional enforcement. Yet, thousands of artisanal miners operate outside this legal framework, disregarding safety protocols and environmental preservation. This indicates that the uncontrolled use of toxic chemicals, such as mercury and lead, will continue to contaminate our soil and water, thereby precipitating public health crises. The devastating lead poisoning outbreak that took place in Zamfara State in 2010, which claimed over 400 lives, is a grim reminder of the dangers when we don’t regulate our mining sector. ‘’
He added: ”The Nigerian Mineral and Mining Act of 2007, while providing a legal framework for mining operations, has proven inadequate in managing the sprawling network of mining activities in Northern Nigeria. Hence, the centralisation of regulatory authority has disenfranchised state and local governments, hindering effective oversight and enforcement.
”To tackle the menace of illegal mining, a bold and integrated framework is necessary. Decentralising mining governance would empower state governments to regulate mining operations more effectively.
This can only be done by amending the existing Mining Act, states could issue licenses, monitor mining activities, and enforce compliance with environmental and safety standards.
”A National Mineral Intelligence and Surveillance Center should be established to coordinate efforts across the region, utilizing technology to track mining activities and detect unauthorized excavation, is the best option. This can be achieved by establishing a Northern Region Mining Security Task Force, consisting of personnel from the military, police, and local vigilante groups, to secure mining corridors and dismantle illegal mining camps.”
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