Efforts to revitalize Nigeria’s solid minerals industry have drawn the attention of the National Assembly, with the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development announcing plans to keep a close watch on the N1 trillion set aside in the 2025 budget for the sector’s rejuvenation.
During a visit to mining sites in Jos, Plateau State, the committee, led by Senator Ekong Sampson (Akwa Ibom South), reaffirmed its intention to ensure that funds allocated to the industry are transparently managed and fully directed toward reviving mining operations across the country.
The committee’s oversight was represented by the Deputy Chairman, Mustapha Khabeeb, who emphasized that supporting economic growth through mineral development remains a legislative priority in alignment with the administration’s broader goals.
In a courtesy meeting with the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, the senator noted that Plateau’s historical role in the mineral landscape gives it strategic relevance. He appealed for cooperation from traditional leaders to help rein in unauthorized mining, which continues to pose serious challenges to legal operators and environmental safety.
“We want to see that every naira committed to this sector delivers value. The role of traditional institutions in curbing the excesses of illegal mining cannot be overstated,” he said.
The traditional ruler, in response, expressed concern over the negative fallout of unregulated mining in the region. He highlighted that unchecked activities have led to increased insecurity, environmental degradation, and even a decline in school attendance.
“Young people are dying in unsafe pits, and our communities are paying the price,” Buba stated. “The spike in food prices and educational dropouts can be linked to these mining-related disruptions.”
The monarch also referenced Plateau State’s recent activation of Executive Order 001, which has placed a temporary hold on all mining operations in a bid to restore order. Despite this directive, he lamented that some operators have defied the ban.
Calling for stronger federal engagement, Buba urged the Senate to prompt the Ministry of Solid Mineral Development to take more decisive action in regulating the industry.
Meanwhile, the Plateau State Chairman of the Mining Association of Nigeria, Musa Gindiri, joined the call for reform, suggesting that mining responsibilities be decentralized. He recommended shifting mining off the exclusive legislative list to give state governments greater control over their natural resources.
“This would enhance oversight, accountability, and better reflect local realities,” Gindiri stated, pointing to a need for flexibility and shared governance in mineral resource management.
The Senate committee pledged to continue its nationwide inspections and legislative engagement to ensure the 2025 budgetary allocation translates into real gains for the sector and for Nigerians at large.
