The federal government cautions foreign entities supporting banditry and illegal mining.

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The Federal Government, under the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has issued a stern warning to foreign entities that support banditry to facilitate illegal mining activities within the country. The ministry conveyed this message through its Head of Press & Public Relations, Alaba Balogun, in a statement released on Friday.

During a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Nigeria-China Chamber of Mines, led by its National President, Dr. Olugbenga Ajala, to the Minister, Dr. Oladele Alake, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, he emphasized the government’s commitment to taking strong action against these unscrupulous foreign operators who finance banditry to facilitate illegal mining activities. He urged the delegation to convey a message to these sponsors, urging them to desist from such activities or face severe legal consequences.

Minister Alake further explained that the Ministry is actively working on establishing a multi-agency task force to put an end to illegal mining activities and the collaboration of those involved. He reiterated that the government has given illegal miners a 30-day grace period to legitimize their operations if they wish to continue in the trade. This initiative aims to streamline and structure small-scale artisanal miners to maximize their contributions to the Federal Government.

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