The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the procurement of a N2.5 billion satellite technology to help combat illegal mining activities in Nigeria. The approval came during the third FEC meeting of the year, held on Monday.
Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, shared this information with journalists after the meeting. According to him, the new satellite system will serve as an integrated solution to address the unlicensed, unregulated, and underreported mining activities that are rampant in the country.
The satellite technology will help monitor mining operations in real-time, identifying illegal activities, revenue leaks, and unlawful mineral extraction. “We are procuring satellite gadgets that will be strategically installed across the country. This will allow us to monitor mining sites and track the volume of minerals extracted, truck movements, and security conditions,” said Alake.
The new technology is part of a two-pronged approach introduced by the ministry to curb illegal mining. This strategy includes both persuasive and coercive measures.
Alake explained that the persuasive strategy encourages artisanal miners to form cooperatives, which will help them become structured, legal, and eligible for financial support. The goal is for these cooperatives to become self-sustaining businesses that contribute to Nigeria’s economy while adhering to regulations.
So far, over 300 cooperatives have been formed as a result of these efforts. For those miners resistant to persuasion, the coercive strategy, exemplified by the Mining Marshalls, is being used. This involves taking legal action against illegal miners, with several arrests, prosecutions, and convictions already carried out, including foreign offenders.
Alake emphasized that these strategies are key to tackling the widespread issue of illegal mining in Nigeria.
