By Erewunmi Peace

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Commissioner, Ajao Adewale, has raised alarm over the devastating impact of illegal mining on Nigeria’s economy and security, revealing that the country loses an estimated ₦13.7 trillion annually to the illicit activity.

Speaking during a media engagement in Abuja, Adewale disclosed that illegal mining not only causes massive revenue losses but also bankrolls banditry and terrorism across the country.

“Nigeria loses about $9 billion, approximately ₦13.7 trillion every year, to illegal mining activities. These funds are being used to finance banditry, insurgency, and other security challenges in the country,” he said.

The Commissioner further warned that illegal mining activities have become a serious national security threat, stressing the urgent need for strict enforcement of mining regulations and stronger collaboration between security agencies, communities, and relevant stakeholders.

This revelation aligns with findings by the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) and the House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals, which recently stated that Nigeria loses $9 billion annually to illegal mining operations.

Key Facts

Annual Loss: ₦13.7 trillion (about $9 billion)

Impact: Fuels banditry, terrorism, and environmental degradation

Call to Action: Stricter enforcement and community engagement

Why This Matters

Nigeria, despite being richly endowed with mineral resources, continues to grapple with the twin challenges of illegal mining and rising insecurity. Experts warn that without urgent intervention, these activities could cripple the mining sector and deepen the country’s security crisis.