The federal government has rejected the establishment of the Nigeria Mines Ranger Service (NMRS) to combat illegal mining and artisanal mining.

The Ministries of Solid Minerals Development, Justice, and Interior, as well as the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), argue that the proposed service duplicates the NSCDC’s mandate.

Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi and Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake, at a public hearing on Thursday in Abuja, expressed concerns. Instead, they suggested strengthening the existing Special Mines Surveillance Task Force (SMSTF).

Mr Fagbemi was represented by the ministry’s legal director, Patrick Eoyan.

They also suggested incorporating technology like drones for enhanced surveillance.

The bill, sponsored by Ogoshi Onawo (PDP-Nasarawa), aimed to provide specialised security for mining operations and enforce regulations.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasised the need for laws promoting security, productivity, and unity.

Mr Akpabio was represented by Senator Diket Plang (APC-Plateau).

He urged the lawmakers to try to rejig laws in such a way to improve the progress, productivity and unity of the nation in terms of security and welfare of citizens.

The Senate president said, “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.” 

(NAN)