Reps Move to Recover $9bn Lost Annually to Illegal Mining
Comfort Chukwukelue
The House of Representatives has inaugurated an ad hoc committee to investigate and curb illegal mining activities across Nigeria, with a strong resolve to recover an estimated $9 billion the country loses annually to the illicit practice.
Speaking during the inauguration in Abuja, the committee’s chairman, Hon. Sanni Abdulraheem, described illegal mining as a “national menace” that robs Nigeria of vital revenue, fuels insecurity, and causes severe environmental degradation.
“It is estimated that Nigeria loses around $9 billion every year to illegal mining operations. This blatant theft of our national wealth, which ought to support development and prosperity, has continued unchecked for too long. That ends now,” Abdulraheem declared.
He explained that the committee’s mandate includes plugging revenue leakages, ensuring transparency and accountability in the mining sector, and guaranteeing that proceeds from the nation’s mineral resources are channelled toward economic growth.
“One of our key objectives is to halt the massive revenue losses caused by illegal mining and its associated activities. These criminal networks not only rob the treasury but also undermine legitimate mining businesses that could significantly boost our internally generated revenue,” he said.
According to Abdulraheem, the committee will work to strengthen revenue monitoring mechanisms and ensure that earnings from the sector are remitted directly into government coffers rather than diverted by illegal operators.
Beyond the economic impact, he also underscored the security and environmental threats posed by illegal mining, noting its links to banditry, environmental degradation, and community displacement.
“These activities are directly linked to rising insecurity and the destruction of ecosystems — polluting rivers, destroying forests, and displacing vulnerable communities. This is a national emergency that we must confront decisively,” he stressed.
The lawmaker reaffirmed the House’s determination to use its constitutional oversight powers to expose corruption, close loopholes, and ensure that Nigeria’s natural wealth benefits its citizens.
“We are determined to fulfil our constitutional duty to investigate, uncover malpractices, and ensure that national resources are used for the good of all Nigerians. Through diligent oversight, we will eliminate the cancer of illegal mining, safeguard the environment, and protect the wellbeing of our people,” Abdulraheem added.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for showing “unprecedented political will” in reviving the long-stalled Ajaokuta Steel Company, describing the move as a sign of renewed commitment to Nigeria’s industrialisation.
“For decades, Ajaokuta has remained a symbol of wasted potential. But today, there is renewed hope. The current administration’s decision to appoint an indigenous expert to lead its revival signals a serious commitment to unlocking its enormous potential,” he said.
“With Ajaokuta’s revitalisation, we are not only looking at a transformative industrial project but also a cornerstone for job creation, industrialisation, and sustained economic growth,” he added.
Abdulraheem expressed appreciation to Speaker Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, for entrusting him with the leadership of the ad hoc committee.
Representing the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Commander of Mining Marshals, ACC Attah John Onoja, pledged full cooperation with the committee. He revealed that since the launch of the Mining Marshals operation in March 2024, over 500 illegal miners have been apprehended, with about 270 currently facing prosecution, while several convictions have already been secured.
“Over 500 illegal miners have been arrested so far, and around 270 are currently being prosecuted. Just three weeks ago, we secured multiple convictions, underscoring our commitment to tackling this menace head-on,” Onoja said.
He assured lawmakers that the NSCDC would continue to protect critical national assets, ensure compliance among licensed operators, and support the committee in achieving its mandate.
