In a significant step towards tackling the growing problem of illegal mining in Nigeria, key stakeholders from the mining industry, security agencies, and the media converged at a one-day workshop organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council in Abuja.
At the workshop, themed “Sustaining the Fight Against Illegal Mining: The Role of the Media”, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals, the Police, and the Miners Association of Nigeria, agreed that teamwork is essential to stopping illegal miners who steal the nation’s resources.
Commander of the Mining Marshals, Attah Onoja, emphasized the need for a broad coalition to combat illegal mining, involving the government, industry players, communities, and the media. He praised the government’s efforts to clean up the sector and noted that the Mining Marshals are backed by strong laws and a strict code of conduct.
The Commissioner of Police for FCT, Ajao Adewale, described illegal mining as a fuel for crime and chaos, leading to banditry, kidnappings, and huge financial losses. He called on journalists to help by sharing tips, investigating money trails, and educating the public.
National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Dele Ayanleke, highlighted the damage caused by illegal mining, including lost government revenue, polluted water, and community conflicts. He urged the media to learn more about mining laws and promote safe, legal mining practices.
The NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Grace Ike, stressed the media’s duty as “gatekeepers of truth” and called on journalists to investigate and educate the public on the devastating effects of illegal mining.
The workshop concluded with a shared commitment to collaborate and protect Nigeria’s resources for future generations. The stakeholders vowed to work together to combat illegal mining and ensure a safer, more prosperous Nigeria.
