By kawaekwune Jeffrey
The Nigerian Senate, on Thursday, mulled the idea of establishing a specialized security unit to tackle what it described as illegal mining activities across the country.
This development followed the passing o a second reading a bill for the Nigerian Mine Rangers Service (NMRS).
Sponsored by Senator Mohammed Onawo, PDP, Nasarawa South, the proposed NMRS, according to him will be responsible for enforcing mining regulations and safeguarding the nation’s mineral resources.
In his presentation, Onawo stressed that the NMRS would not only address illegal mining but also ensure the safety of miners.
He said: “The proposed Mine Rangers Service will safeguard mining operations, enforce regulations, and provide emergency care in mining accidents. This bill is a critical step in diversifying our economy by curbing illegal mining and focusing on harnessing our vast mineral resources.”
It would be recalled that reports indicate that Nigeria loses approximately $18.9 billion annually to illegal mining activities, a situation the Senate believes could be addressed through this initiative. The NMRS will not only target illegal miners but also address the rising threat of banditry associated with mining sites.
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, APC, Abia North, on his part emphasized the financial losses caused by illegal mining,
He stated: “The yearly loss of $18.9 billion to illegal mining must be stopped. This specialized security outfit will ensure that illegal mining is curbed and also combat the banditry often linked to it.”
In his remarks, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin commended the bill’s scope, highlighting its potential to enhance security and identify criminals involved in illegal mining.
He stated: “We need a special security arrangement for the mining sector, and this bill is timely. It will help in combating banditry and preventing the criminality associated with illegal mining.”
