Illegal Mining Linked to Rising Insecurity and Money Laundering – Reps Committee

The House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee on Mineral Exploitation, Security and Anti-Money Laundering has expressed concern over the growing impact of illegal mining in Nigeria, warning that it is contributing to insecurity, money laundering, and huge revenue losses.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ workshop on extractive industry governance in Abuja, the committee chairman, Sanni Abdulraheem, said criminal groups are exploiting the country’s mineral resources through illegal operations and weak regulatory enforcement.

He noted that Nigeria possesses abundant mineral resources, including gold, lithium, tin, coal, and tantalite, but many communities have yet to enjoy the benefits of this wealth.

According to him, illegal mining and the diversion of proceeds from the sector continue to deprive the country of valuable economic gains.

Abdulraheem explained that the committee was set up to investigate the extent of illegal mineral exploitation, uncover financial networks connected to the laundering of mining proceeds, assess security challenges in mining communities, and review existing laws and regulations.

He revealed that the panel has already engaged several government agencies and stakeholders and has issued summons where necessary to support its investigation.

He added that stronger cooperation among relevant institutions is essential to effectively tackle the problem.

The lawmaker also called on anti-corruption agencies to intensify efforts to trace illicit funds linked to illegal mining, stressing that disrupting the financial networks behind the activities is key to ending the menace.

He assured licensed mining operators that the investigation is aimed at protecting legitimate businesses and promoting transparency in the sector.

The workshop was declared open by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, represented by House Leader Professor Julius Ihonvbere.

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