The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has disclosed that miners and operators within the sector collectively owe the Federal Government an amount exceeding N2 trillion. Emphasizing the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to curbing the operations of illegal miners nationwide, Alake condemned such activities as a significant crime against Nigeria and its citizens.
Speaking during a meeting with Licensed Minerals Holders and Laterite/Sand Operators Dealers in Kaduna State, the minister, represented by Acting Zonal Mines Officer, Kutman Hosea Ali, stressed that the outstanding debt to the federal government stands at over N2 trillion, with Kaduna State alone accounting for more than N300 billion.
Alake made it clear that operators in Kaduna State should take decisive actions to settle their debts. He directed the Special Mines Taskforce in Kaduna State to intensify efforts in combating illegal mining and ensuring timely payment of royalties and other taxes to the federal government. The taskforce comprises members from various security agencies, including the Nigeria Army, Police, Civil Defence Corp, Department of State Security Services, operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and the Nigeria Immigration Service, with Mines officers leading the team.
Expressing concern about the non-remittance of royalties and taxes on mineral resources, Alake warned that states failing to comply with payment obligations would face penalties. He clarified that mining falls under the exclusive list, controlled solely by the federal government, with states and local governments not authorized to collect royalties or any mining tax. Any state or local government found collecting such payments would be deducted from their allocated source.
Alake cautioned miners against operating without a valid mining license, urging those with licenses to report to the Mines Office in Kaduna to obtain permits before mobilizing to their respective sites. The minister outlined that the purpose of the meeting was to unveil the ministry’s plans for miners and operators in 2024 and beyond, underscoring the priority given to the mining sector under President Tinubu’s administration.
In response, Ado Dogo, Chairman of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Kaduna branch, represented by the association’s Secretary, Kashim Hussaini, highlighted the necessity of an interface between miners and regulators. Dogo criticized the interference of state governors in mining activities, emphasizing the importance of governors respecting laws governing mining in their states. He emphasized that miners contribute to the federation account and called for a harmonious relationship between miners and state authorities.
