FG Rejects Proposed Nigeria Mines Ranger Service Plan
The Federal Government has opposed the creation of the Nigeria Mines Ranger Service (NMRS), designed to combat illegal and artisanal mining activities. This decision, announced at a public hearing on Thursday in Abuja, has sparked discussions on alternative measures for mining security.
The Ministries of Solid Minerals Development, Justice, and Interior, alongside agencies like the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), argue that establishing NMRS would duplicate the existing NSCDC mandate. Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi, represented by Dr Patrick Eoyan, Director of Legal in the Ministry of Justice, recommended enhancing the current Special Mines Surveillance Task Force (SMSTF) rather than creating a new agency.
Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake, supporting Fagbemi’s stance, highlighted that integrating advanced technology, such as drones, could bolster surveillance efforts more effectively than setting up a new body.
The Bill proposing the NMRS was sponsored by Senator Ogoshi Onawo (PDP-Nasarawa) and intended to deploy specialised security forces for mining operations and regulatory enforcement. However, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Senator Diket Plang (APC-Plateau), underscored the importance of enacting laws that encourage both security and economic productivity.
He emphasised, “Let the process of exploiting and extracting mineral resources not be detrimental to lives. It should be productive to the economy. It should also improve the standard of living of Nigerians.” Akpabio urged lawmakers to revise laws in a way that fosters progress, productivity, and national unity, reflecting the government’s intent to strengthen existing frameworks rather than expand bureaucratic structures. FirstBank Hosts 6th Fintech Summit
