• Partner FCT NUJ on advocacy

From Fred Ezeh, Abuja

The FCT Commissioner of Police, Ajao Saka Adewale, said on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, that the rising interest in banditry activities in some states is due to the huge financial resources derived from illegal mining.

The CP stated that Sokoto, Zamfara, Niger, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kaduna, Kwara, Osun, and parts of the FCT are witnessing security challenges because of competing interests in their mineral resources.

At a media parley on sustaining the fight against illegal mining with members of the FCT chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Abuja, the CP referenced a report indicating that some powerful Nigerians are behind illegal mining and funding insecurity.

He noted that the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, confirmed that these “powerful Nigerians” are the primary drivers of illegal mining, using foreigners as fronts, and that banditry and terrorism are often funded by these well-connected individuals, not grassroots artisanal miners.

In the FCT, the CP reported illegal mining activities in communities like Gwagwalada, Asokoro, Gaube, Kuje, and Katampe Extension, with a combined total of 72 suspects arrested by the NSCDC, Police, and EFCC between 2023 and 2024.

He assured that the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, is keen on combating the menace, having ordered a comprehensive clampdown on illegal mining operations within the FCT.

The National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Dele Ayanleke, redefined illegal mining, stating that those often labelled as illegal miners are not always so. He described illegal mining as the unauthorised extraction of minerals such as gold, lithium, tin, and sand without necessary permits, licences, or compliance with environmental and safety regulations, often ignoring environmental safeguards, labour standards, and social responsibilities.

He highlighted that illegal mining severely impacts Nigeria’s economy and environment, stressing that the fight requires continuous effort, with the media playing a critical role in informing the public, influencing policy, and mobilising communities.

“The media is central to this sustained effort. By consistently reporting, educating, and advocating, it keeps illegal mining in public discourse and ensures accountability at all levels. The media must be well acquainted with the whole gamut of mining, its laws, regulations, and operations.

“By this, the media will empower itself to do balanced reporting of the sector, including all forms of illegality. Gone are the days when media organisations designate just any staff to cover the sector. The media serves as a vital tool in educating the public about illegal mining, its implications, and the importance of adhering to legal mining practices.

“Sustaining the fight against illegal mining in Nigeria requires persistent attention, action, and public engagement. Illegal mining is not only an economic issue but also poses major environmental and social challenges, causing deforestation, water pollution, soil degradation, and loss of lives.

“The media is a critical partner in this fight. Through awareness campaigns, investigative reporting, community mobilisation, and advocacy, it ensures that efforts to combat illegal mining are continuous, coordinated, and effective. By keeping illegal mining in public discourse, pressuring authorities, and educating communities, the media strengthens enforcement, encourages ethical practices, and helps Nigeria protect its mineral resources for sustainable development,” Ayanleke said.

The Commandant of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant NSCDC, Attah John Onoja, highlighted the dangerous effects of illegal mining and how such activities result in economic sabotage. He solicited media support for balanced reporting on illegal mining activities.

The NUJ FCT Chairman, Grace Ike, in her welcome remarks, promised that the NUJ FCT will continue to champion and amplify the voices of affected communities, ensuring their stories and struggles are heard nationwide. She noted that empowering citizens with information equips them to demand better regulatory oversight and environmental protections.

“It fosters a culture of transparency and heightens public awareness, which are essential to curbing illegal mining activities. In an era of digital technology and social media, the media industry has even greater reach and influence. We must leverage these platforms responsibly to disseminate vital information, debunk misinformation, and encourage a national conversation on sustainable mining practices.

“Partnerships with environmental experts, civil society, law enforcement, and government agencies can enhance the depth and effectiveness of our coverage. As journalists, we also have an ethical obligation to report without bias, sensationalism, or undue influence.

“Our credibility and integrity are critical to maintaining public trust. So, let us continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in our coverage of illegal mining and related issues,” she said.