Illegal mining activities have become a major concern for the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), as they pose serious threats to the security and environment of the country. The NSCDC has recently arrested three suspects for illegal coal mining in Gombe State and has called for more collaboration among stakeholders to curb the menace.
According to the State Commandant of NSCDC, Muhammad Bello Mu’azu, the suspects were caught operating at a site in the Gamawa community in Akko Local Government Area without the required mining clearance approved by the Federal Government. He said that illegal mining has adverse consequences, such as environmental degradation, soil erosion, deforestation, water pollution, and various security challenges across the country.
Mu’azu also revealed that the suspects claimed to be the site owners with a license, but their approval was for laterite sand, not coal mining. He said that the Command has ordered the temporary suspension of mining activities at the site until proper clearance is obtained from the relevant authorities.
Illegal mining is not new in Nigeria, as it has been reported in several states, such as Zamfara, Osun, Ebonyi, and Akwa Ibom. The activities of illegal miners have often been linked to violence, banditry, kidnapping, and other crimes, as well as environmental hazards, such as lead poisoning, mercury contamination, and land degradation.
The Federal Government has taken steps to address illegal mining, such as establishing a Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Development Initiative (PAGMI) in 2020 to formalize and regulate the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector. The initiative also seeks to create a gold reserve for the country and generate revenue from gold exports.
However, more efforts are needed to ensure compliance with the mining laws and regulations and sensitize and educate the local communities on the dangers and impacts of illegal mining. The NSCDC has urged all stakeholders, including the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, the state governments, the traditional rulers, and the security agencies, to work together to end illegal mining and protect the nation’s resources and environment.
Source: Tribune Online
