The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the procurement of a N2.5 billion satellite technology to combat illegal mining and improve regulation in the solid minerals sector.
Announcing this after the council’s third meeting of the year, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, said the technology would enhance real-time monitoring of mining sites across the country.
The system will track mineral extraction volumes, truck movements, and security situations from a central operations hub.
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Alake highlighted a two-pronged strategy to address illegal mining: a persuasive approach encouraging artisanal miners to form cooperatives for legal recognition and financial support, and a coercive approach through Mining Marshalls, which has led to multiple arrests and convictions.
Over 300 mining cooperatives have already been established under this initiative.
The minister affirmed that the satellite system is a crucial step toward curbing revenue loss and securing Nigeria’s mineral resources.
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