New Legislation: Senate Advances Bill For The Creation Of Mines Rangers Service To Address Illegal Mining

New Legislation: Senate Advances Bill For The Creation Of Mines Rangers Service To Address Illegal Mining....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The Nigerian Senate has progressed a bill aimed at creating the Nigeria Mines Rangers Service (NMRS) to combat illegal and artisanal mining in the country. The bill successfully passed its second reading during Thursday’s plenary session, introduced by Sen. Mohammed Onawo (SDP-Nasarawa)……CONTINUE READING 

In his presentation, Sen. Onawo emphasized that the NMRS would oversee mining operations, ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Additionally, the service aims to promote sustainable mining practices throughout Nigeria.

Once established, the NMRS will operate as a specialized security unit to address illegal mining activities. Its responsibilities will include providing rescue services for trapped miners, administering emergency medical care, investigating mining accidents, and enforcing mining regulations. Sen. Onawo stated, “The bill has been meticulously crafted to curb illegal mining and create opportunities for harnessing Nigeria’s vast mineral resources. This legislation is a significant step toward diversifying our economy beyond its heavy reliance on oil revenue.”

During the debate, several lawmakers expressed their support for the initiative. Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu (APC-Abia) highlighted the NMRS’s potential to prevent the annual loss of approximately $18.9 billion due to illegal mining. He also noted that the security service would play a crucial role in combating banditry, which often overlaps with illegal mining activities.

Deputy Senate President Sen. Barau Jibrin (APC-Kano), who presided over the session, praised the bill as timely, underlining its significance for security and regulatory oversight within the mining sector. He further pointed out that addressing illegal mining could aid in identifying and apprehending criminals involved in both mining and banditry.

Sen. Jibrin subsequently referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals for further review, with the committee expected to report back within two weeks.