The Miners Association of Nigeria has rejected calls by northern governors and elders for a ban on mining activities in the region, warning that such a move would worsen insecurity and cripple livelihoods.
In a statement signed by the association’s National President, Dele Ayanleke, and National Secretary, Sulaiman Liman, the group said it was wrong to blame mining for the surge in terrorism and banditry across the North.
According to the association, its members operate legally, work with security agencies, and contribute to local economies through community projects and supply of raw materials to industries.
“To lump legal mining with illegal mining and place a blanket ban on all activities will be unjust. It will create mass unemployment, deepen poverty and increase insecurity,” the statement said.
The association noted that previous bans had failed to curb violence. It cited the 2019 suspension of mining in Zamfara State, saying banditry, kidnapping and illegal mining “have escalated and spread to neighbouring states.”
It added that such bans only restrict lawful operators, while illegal miners and criminal networks continue to access mineral sites “under the support of local and foreign sponsors,” taking advantage of weak enforcement.
The group warned that a nationwide or regional suspension would result in huge investment losses and further damage Nigeria’s credibility as a viable destination for mining investment.
The association also questioned the call by northern governors for an audit and revalidation of existing mineral titles, saying the request “is not legally or procedurally tenable.”
Instead, it urged governors to support security agencies with logistics and manpower, especially the recently established Mining Marshals, to tackle illegal mining linked to criminal groups.
“As the foremost industry association, we reject the call for banning mining activities in any part of the country and urge the President, Federal Executive Council and National Assembly to reject it,” the statement added.
‘Mining ban will worsen insecurity’ — Group advises northern governors
