The House of Representatives has inaugurated an Ad-Hoc Committee to investigate and curb the escalating menace of illegal mining across Nigeria.
The committee, chaired by Mr. Sanni Egidi Abdulraheem, is mandated to identify the causes, actors, and impacts of illegal mining and recommend sustainable solutions to safeguard the nation’s mineral resources.
Mr. Abdulraheem promised that the committee would justify the confidence reposed in it by carrying out a thorough and result-oriented assignment.
He said; “Nigerians will witness the results as we advance in our duties, with unwavering commitment to ensuring that this Committee delivers on its mandate to curb the activities of illegal mining in any part of this country.
“I would like to take this moment to express my profound gratitude to the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas for the confidence reposed in me to lead this important Ad Hoc Committee. This trust is not taken lightly, and I assure you, Sir, that this Illegal mining, as we all know, is a scourge that has had devastating effects on our nation, from the massive revenue losses to the criminality that undermines our security and rudely alter our environment.”
It is estimated that Nigeria loses approximately $9 billion annually due to illegal mining activities. This theft of our resources that should be enriching our nation has gone on for far too long, and it is time to put an end to it.
“Our mission is clear. It is to block these revenue leakages, enforce transparency, and ensure that every naira from. our natural resources is properly accounted for,” Mr. Abdulraheem said.
Mr. Abdulraheem said “the committee would ensure that every naira generated from Nigeria’s rich natural resources contributes to the nation’s economic prosperity.”
“As we move forward, one of the core objectives of this Committee is to block the revenue leakages caused by illegal mining and its associated activities, which not only rob our national treasury but also hinder the growth of legitimate mining operations that could contribute substantially to our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
“Through structured oversight, we will strengthen revenue-tracking mechanisms and ensure that the full benefits of Nigeria’s mining sector flow directly into government coffers, rather than being siphoned off through illegal activities.”
“Equally important is the issue of criminality and environmental degradation linked to illegal mining. These activities not only fuel insecurity but also pollute our waterways, destroy forests, and displace vulnerable communities. This is a matter of national urgency that must be tackled head-on,” he stated.
The Chairman promised that the committee would leave no stone unturned in its assignment.
He said; “This Committee stands firmly on the constitutional mandate entrusted to us by the people we serve. We are committed to fulfilling our oversight responsibility as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria — to expose corruption, curb malpractices, and ensure that our resources are used for the benefit of all Nigerians.
“Through diligent oversight, we will rid our nation of the menace of illegal mining, safeguard the environment, and protect the well-being of our citizens. Using the powers granted to us, we will investigate, gather evidence, and propose actionable solutions that will restore sanity and accountability to Nigeria’s mining sector,” he said.
Mr. Abdulraheem, who also represents Ajaokuta Federal Constituency, expressed personal commitment to resource optimization and industrial revival.
He said; “In my constituency, the Ajaokuta Steel Company stands as a glaring reminder of Nigeria’s failure to fully harness its mineral potential. For years, this vital industrial asset has been underutilized while other nations have capitalized on similar resources.
“However, I am proud to say that Ajaokuta is now on track to fulfilling its true promise. The current administration has demonstrated unprecedented political will to rejuvenate this critical national asset, as seen in the appointment of an indigenous professional to lead its revival. This gives us renewed hope for the future of Nigeria’s steel industry.
With Ajaokuta poised for success, we are looking at not just an economic game-changer but a cornerstone for industrialization, job creation, and long-term economic growth.”
Mr. Abdulraheem further assured that the Committee’s work would be thorough, inclusive, and solutions-driven.
“As we embark on this journey, I assure Nigerians that our approach will be focused and collaborative. To ensure our recommendations are practical and achievable, we will work closely with all stakeholders — government ministries and agencies, the private sector, and affected communities,” he said.
Mr. Abdulraheem noted that the Committee is ready to begin its critical assignment with a strong sense of duty and optimism.
“We will stand as a firm, unyielding voice for the sanctity of Nigeria’s resources, working tirelessly to ensure a brighter, more secure future for our nation,” he added.
Olusola Akintonde