Nigeria Loses $15.9 Billion Annually To Illegal Mining, Senator Kalu Reveals (Video)

In a bid to curb the economic losses incurred through illegal mining, the Senator representing Abia North, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu has called for the establishment of a ranger service to tackle the issue.

Speaking during a plenary session, Kalu emphasized that Nigeria loses approximately $15.9 billion yearly due to illicit mining activities.

Kalu stressed that a well-equipped ranger service would not only address illegal mining but also assist the Nigerian police and customs in combating smuggling. He proposed arming the rangers to ensure their effectiveness.

The senator highlighted the significance of securing Nigeria’s mining areas, pointing out that mining has the potential to generate more revenue than crude oil. With natural resources abundant in every region, Kalu urged Nigerians to capitalize on these opportunities.

This call to action comes as the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) advocates for a review of the minimum wage and addresses the country’s economic challenges ¹. Kalu has separately urged the NLC to consider dialogue over protests to effectively address their grievances.