FG Plans to Establish Special Police Force to Combat Illegal Mining
The Federal Government of Nigeria has revealed its intentions to establish a specialised police force dedicated to combating illegal mining activities across the country.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr. Dele Alake, made this announcement during an appearance on NTA Weekend File, where he discussed the government’s plans to boost the contribution of the mining sector to the country’s economy.
The minister acknowledged that the mining sector faces security challenges related to illegal mining activities.
To address these issues, he outlined the government’s strategy, which includes collaborating with various security agencies and creating a special police force for this purpose.
Mr. Alake explained that this new security outfit will not be limited to addressing security concerns within the mining sector; its mandate will also encompass maritime and the blue economy.
The Mining Police Force, or Mine Police, as it will be called, will fall under the purview of the Ministry of Solid Minerals, with its personnel being answerable to the ministry.
In addition, the minister emphasised the importance of streamlining and simplifying the mining licence application process for potential investors.
He stated that the ministry aims to overhaul the entire application and licencing process to make it more efficient.
A one-stop-shop approach will be implemented to guide investors through the application process, ensuring they have a clear understanding of the requirements and procedures.
The goal is to issue mining licences within 30 days, making the process faster and more attractive to investors, ultimately promoting ease of doing business in the mining sector.
This move reflects the government’s commitment to addressing illegal mining activities and fostering a conducive environment for legitimate mining investments in Nigeria.
Source: Nairametrics
