RismadarVoice Reporters
September 27, 2026
Solid Minerals Development Minister Dele Alake has revealed that federal security operations uncovered 374 illegal mining sites across 17 states, resulting in 743 arrests, 165 prosecutions, and 108 site shutdowns.
Officials and security agencies have declared illicit mining a major national security threat, directly linking unregulated operations to armed banditry, land destruction, and severe public health crises.
A House of Representatives committee further categorised illegal mining as a “sophisticated national threat” with grave implications for national security, revenue generation, and governance.
Operations by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals identified complex networks involving foreign nationals, local financiers, and armed syndicates.
In Nasarawa State, 15 Chinese nationals and nine Nigerians were arraigned over illegal lithium extraction, while additional arrests occurred in Niger and Kogi states.
Over 156 mining-related deaths have been recorded nationwide due to pit collapses, violence, and toxic chemical exposure.
In Plateau State alone, accidents, shooting incidents, and gas leaks caused 90 fatalities, prompting state authorities to issue Executive Order 001 to suspend unauthorised mining.
Meanwhile, in Niger State, 37 suspected illegal miners died while in security custody, triggering an independent investigation.
Beyond security concerns, medical experts have warned of severe developmental, neurological, and reproductive damage to children exposed to heavy metals near mining pits.
Speaking on the health hazards facing underage workers, Professor of Pharmacology Omoniyi Yemitan warned, “Toxic metal poisoning can cause brain damage.
If enough oxygen is not getting to the brain, especially in children, then all the health issues which I mentioned originally about brain damage and low IQ will generally occur.”
