Ministry Workers Call on EFCC to Tackle Illegal Mining in Port Harcourt

Workers from the Ministry of Solid Minerals, represented by the Federal Mines Officers, have called for the intervention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in tackling the growing issue of illegal mining activities in Nigeria.

During a visit to the Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate of the EFCC on Thursday, November 21, 2024, Engr. Naku Romos, the President of the Port Harcourt Branch, led the delegation to seek collaboration between the Ministry and the EFCC.

The delegation emphasized the severe impact of illegal mining, noting that it not only undermines the legitimacy of the mining sector but also constitutes economic crimes. Furthermore, they highlighted the environmental degradation caused by these illegal activities, particularly in the already vulnerable Niger Delta ecosystem.

Romos, who took office in September 2024, explained that it has become a tradition for officials of the Ministry of Solid Minerals to familiarize themselves with key government agencies, especially law enforcement bodies such as the EFCC, Police, and DSS.

He noted that the Ministry’s primary responsibility is to regulate and oversee the mining of solid minerals in the country. Romos expressed concern over the significant economic losses the government incurs due to the unchecked activities of illegal miners.

He emphasized that the fight against illegal mining would not be successful without the full cooperation of law enforcement agencies, which are essential in ensuring compliance with regulations and protecting the nation’s resources.

In response, Adebayo Adeniyi, the Acting Director of the Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate of the EFCC, welcomed the Ministry’s initiative and reiterated the Commission’s readiness to collaborate with any agency working towards the betterment of Nigeria.

Adeniyi acknowledged the importance of addressing illegal mining, a priority area for the EFCC under the leadership of Executive Chairman Mr. Ola Olukoyede. He revealed that the EFCC had established a Special Task Force across its directorates to specifically handle illegal mining cases.

Additionally, he disclosed that the Port Harcourt Directorate was already investigating several cases related to illegal mining in the region, showcasing the Commission’s active involvement in the fight against this crime.

Adeniyi also stressed the importance of proactive measures, particularly public enlightenment campaigns for miners, many of whom may be unaware that their activities are illegal and environmentally destructive. He suggested that educating miners on the legal requirements for mining and the environmental consequences of illegal practices could be a crucial first step.

If miners continue to operate illegally after such awareness programs, he urged the Ministry to submit petitions to the EFCC, assuring that the Commission would take decisive action. Adeniyi committed to maintaining an aggressive stance against illegal mining in the Niger Delta, promising that the EFCC would work tirelessly to put an end to the exploitation of natural resources and the environmental degradation caused by these illicit activities.

The collaboration between the Ministry of Solid Minerals and the EFCC is seen as a critical step toward ensuring that Nigeria’s mining sector is properly regulated, and that the country’s natural resources are protected from illegal exploitation.

With both agencies committed to combating illegal mining and its devastating effects, there is hope that this partnership could lead to significant improvements in both the economy and the environment.