Dele Ayankale, National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, spoke with The Punch on the proposed suspension of mining activities in northern states and the challenges posed by illegal mining in the region.
When he was asked about the association’s opposition to the plan, Ayankale explained that while they are not against measures aimed at improving security, they believe the suspension of legitimate mining operations is not the solution. He noted that miners themselves often bear the brunt of violence and disruptions, incurring significant losses, and emphasized the need to consider historical approaches.
When he was told that Senator Adams Oshiomhole also alleged that retired generals were behind the illegal mining, and asked if it was true, he said, “Well, he knows better than me. I cannot point to anyone. The person who said that is supposed to provide proof. However, I know that from what has happened, powerful people are behind the issues going on.”
Ayankale emphasized the importance of distinguishing between artisanal and illegal mining. He explained that artisanal mining is a global phenomenon, involving unskilled individuals seeking to make a living from available resources.
According to him, the challenge lies with illegal mining, which can be mitigated if licensed operators are adequately supported. “When legitimate operators are empowered and provided with assistance from the government, they can effectively secure their concessions and prevent encroachment by illegal miners,” he said.
He illustrated the point, noting that if an operator holds a license for a manageable area, security measures—both governmental and privately arranged—can help safeguard the site. “By ensuring adequate oversight and protection of licensed areas, the presence of illegal mining can be significantly reduced,” he added.
Ayankale further explained that illegal mining tends to occur primarily on large tracts of land that operators cannot effectively manage, leaving gaps that others exploit. See More
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