Nigerian security agencies pledge readiness to tackle illegal mining as technical committee meets

Nigeria’s top security agencies have expressed their readiness to emplace sanity in the country’s mining sector, in line with the frantic efforts of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government of Nigeria.

The technical committee charged by the Federal Government to set up a joint taskforce, convened at the instance of the IGP, Abuja to address the challenges posed by illegal mining in Nigeria.

In a press statement by Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, said the Committee meeting, which was held at the Police Force Headquarters, had in attendance the representatives from the Armed Forces, Police, NSCDC, Ministry of Solid Minerals, Environment, and other relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.

“The mandate of the proposed Taskforce is multifaceted, aiming to curb illegal mining activities perpetrated by both foreigners and Nigerians.

“Key objectives include enhancing security in mining areas, enforcing mining laws, ensuring proper warehousing and monitoring of explosives, and advancing environmental sustainability in our mining operations”

He stressed that The Nigeria Police Force, security forces, and other MDAs remain steadfast in supporting the agenda of the Federal Government’s quest for economic recovery and growth as well as socio-political development of Nigeria.

Nigeria has been struggling with banditry and kidnappings which were at times linked to the activities of illegal miners.