Nigeria Embarks on Forensic Audit of its Mining Sector
The minister of Solid Minerals Development Henry Dele Alake who disclosed this at an event said the forensic audit of the entire mining sector will be in collaborating with the Ministry of Science and Technology on satellite imaging.
Alake emphasised that the ongoing reforms will lead to the implementation of technology-driven mechanisms aimed at enhancing the regulatory framework of the federal government.
It will assist, he added “in monitoring activities at mining sites and consequently bolster our capacity to effectively secure the mining environment”.
Highlighting the importance of Plateau State in mining because of its long history in the sector, Alake sought collaboration with the Plateau State governor Mr Caleb Mutfwang to harness the vast solid mineral potential and address the prevalence of abandoned mining pits, which he noted represent relics of the colonial era.
In his remarks Mutfwang commended the zeal and enthusiasm the minister has brought to the sector since assuming office, a leadership he said that has potential to unlock the vast array of solid minerals that could contribute significantly to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product.
On the security of mining sites, the governor hailed the mining marshals for their achievements so far, urging the minister to ensure their proper integration into the state’s security network to stay abreast of their activities.
Mutfwang also advocated for an improved regulatory framework, up-to-date data in the mining sector, and federal support to address the issue of abandoned mining pits in the state.