The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, disclosed that miners and operators in the sector owe the Federal Government more than N2 trillion. Emphasizing the determination of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to curb illegal mining activities, Alake called the actions of illegal miners a massive crime against Nigeria during a meeting with Licensed Minerals Holders and Laterite/Sand Operators Dealers in Kaduna State.
Alake highlighted the staggering debt, stating, “Miners and operators owed the federal government more than N2 trillion,” with Kaduna State alone accounting for over N300 billion. The minister urged operators in Kaduna State to take decisive steps to clear their debts.
Addressing the issue of illegal mining, Alake directed the Special Mines Taskforce in Kaduna State to crack down on illegal miners and ensure the monthly payment of royalties and other taxes to the federal government. The taskforce, comprising members from various security agencies, is mandated to enforce compliance.
Alake criticized the non-remittance of royalties and taxes on mineral resources, warning that defaulting states would face penalties. He clarified that mining falls under the exclusive list controlled by the federal government, emphasizing that states and local governments are not permitted to collect royalties or mining taxes.
The minister activated the Special Mines Taskforce in Kaduna State, composed of military, police, civil defense, DSS, EFCC, and immigration personnel. The taskforce, led by Mines officers in the state, is geared towards combating illegal mining and ensuring timely payment of royalties and taxes.
Miners and operators were cautioned against operating without a valid mining license. Alake urged those with licenses to obtain permits from the Mines Office in Kaduna before mobilizing to mining sites. The purpose of the meeting was to unveil the ministry’s plan for miners and operators for 2024 and beyond, emphasizing the sector’s priority under President Tinubu’s administration.
Chairman of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Kaduna branch, Ado Dogo, represented by the association’s Secretary, Kashim Hussaini, stressed the need for cooperation between miners and regulators. Dogo decried state governors’ interference in mining activities and called for adherence to laws governing mining operations at various levels.
