The federal government has imposed an immediate ban on all mining activities in Unguwar Magro Village, Niger State, following the brutal murder of 12 miners by bandits. This suspension will remain in place until investigations are completed and those responsible for the heinous crime are identified and brought to justice.
Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, announced the ban through a statement on his official X handle on Thursday. This action comes amid growing concerns about the involvement of non-Nigerians in funding illegal mining operations in Nigeria, which has contributed to escalating violence in mineral-rich areas like Niger State’s Shiroro Local Government Area, where the attack occurred.
In his statement, Dr. Alake urged foreign embassies to closely monitor the activities of their nationals involved in Nigeria’s mining sector. He warned that any criminal behavior by foreign nationals could strain bilateral relations and that the Nigerian government would not tolerate such activities.
“The mining operations in Unguwar Magro Village are suspended to ensure a thorough investigation and to identify those responsible for the attack,” Dr. Alake stated. “I assure Nigerians that security agencies are actively pursuing the murderers of the 12 miners, and they will be apprehended soon.”
He emphasized that no further mining activities would be allowed at the site of the attack until the investigations are concluded. The government has tasked security agencies with ensuring that mining sites across the country are protected from bandits who seek to exploit these areas through violence.
“The Mining Marshals, in collaboration with intelligence units, are treating this attack as a special case. We are tracking the suspected bandits who infiltrated Shiroro from neighboring states. Those who invade villages and kill innocents for illegal mining will face severe consequences,” Dr. Alake added.
The minister strongly condemned the attack, vowing that the deaths of the miners would not go unavenged. He reiterated that security agencies are fully committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice. Preliminary investigations suggest that non-Nigerians have been funding these illegal operations, and anyone found involved will face prosecution for economic sabotage and waging war against Nigeria.
Dr. Alake assured the public that efforts are underway to secure mining sites nationwide. The government is determined to combat the incursion of bandits and other criminal elements who aim to take control of mineral-rich areas through violence for illegal mining activities.
Nigeria, despite holding vast deposits of valuable solid minerals like gold, iron ore, and lithium, has struggled to attract substantial investment in the mining sector due to ongoing insecurity. In states like Kaduna, Niger, Nasarawa, Zamfara, and Plateau, the activities of bandits have displaced entire communities, leading to the illegal extraction and sale of these minerals in black markets.
In response to these challenges, the federal government has initiated several measures to formalize and secure the mining sector. Plans are underway to establish a National Solid Mineral Company, which will oversee mining operations and ensure compliance with regulations. Additionally, a specialized mining police force has been created to help secure communities where mining activities are conducted.
Furthermore, the government has revoked the exploratory licenses of miners found to be operating illegally and has introduced a new license category for artisanal miners. These steps are part of a broader strategy to regulate the mining industry, enhance security, and ensure that Nigeria can fully benefit from its rich mineral resources.
