The Nigerian Senate has taken a significant step towards combating illegal mining and banditry, proposing the establishment of a specialized security outfit dedicated to preventing illegal mining activities in Nigeria.
The proposed outfit, named the ‘Nigerian Mine Rangers Service’ (NMRS), is sponsored by Senator Mohammed Onawo (PDP – Nasarawa South).
In his lead debate, Senator Onawo emphasized that the NMRS would be responsible for safeguarding mining operations, enforcing mining laws, environmental, and safety regulations, and promoting sustainable mining practices across the country.
He detailed that the NMRS would address various challenges, including curbing illegal mining, rescuing trapped miners, providing emergency medical assistance, investigating mining accidents, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
Senators supporting the Bill hailed the NMRS as a crucial development for the protection and security of mining sites nationwide.
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Senator Orji Uzor Kalu noted that the establishment of this security outfit could help halt the annual loss of $18.9 billion due to illegal mining.
Following the Bill’s passage, Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin commended the initiative as a vital measure for enhancing protection and regulatory enforcement in the mining sector.
He also highlighted its potential to combat banditry, citing a recent case where a notorious bandit had previously worked as a security guard at mining sites before turning to illegal mining and banditry.
The Bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals for further legislative input, to report back in two weeks.
(Editor: Ken Eseni)
