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The Federal Government has arrested 300 illegal miners, including foreign nationals, as part of a sweeping initiative to revitalise Nigeria’s mining sector.
This was disclosed by Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, during a House Committee on Solid Minerals oversight visit to the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.
Minister Alake revealed the arrests while highlighting the government’s comprehensive 7-point agenda aimed at combating illegal mining, safeguarding communities, and attracting international investors.
“This renewed security architecture is already having a profound impact,” Alake stated, citing the deployment of over 2,000 trained mine marshals to enforce security. “Our commitment to safeguarding mining sites ensures Nigeria’s stability and invites investors seeking reliable partnerships.”
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Alake credited President Bola Tinubu’s proactive support for enabling effective inter-ministerial collaboration, particularly with the Ministry of Interior, which has accelerated resource deployment to protect mining areas.
The crackdown comes amid broader efforts to position Nigeria as a global mineral hub. Alake highlighted the ministry’s successful outreach campaigns, which have drawn interest from leading international investors.
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“Our vision is to establish Nigeria’s mining sector as a cornerstone of economic growth,” the minister said, expressing gratitude for legislative support in building a resilient mining framework.
The initiative reflects a decisive push to restore the country’s global standing in mineral development, aligning with strategic goals to attract foreign partnerships and foster mutual economic growth.