FG Warns Against Illegal Mining Activities

August 5, 2015 Babatunde Ojetola

Adetokunbo Fakeye

President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday warned that the Federal Government will no longer tolerate illegal mining and other improper activities that have inhibited the growth of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.

The warning was contained in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina.

According to the statement, President Buhari issued the warning after receiving a briefing from top officials of the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development led by the Permanent Secretary, Baba Umar Farouk.

It said Mr President, who noted that the mines and steel sector was very important for the diversification of the economy, expressed displeasure at Mr. Farouk’s report that the sector had been overrun by illegal miners.

“This is one of the most demoralizing briefs I have received. The biggest threat to this country besides the Boko Haram is unemployment and the mining sector is key to employment creation.

“We cannot be held back on such a strategic industry that can give us much needed jobs and promote economic growth.

“There must be more seriousness in running this country and we are determined to instill that seriousness,’’ the President said.

The Permanent Secretary told the President that Nigeria’s mining sector has been infiltrated by “illegal aliens” who carry out unlawful mining activities in the country.