Improve operation or face sanctions, Alake warns MIREMCO

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, has criticised the lacklustre performance of the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) and threatened to take action if the body does not improve its operations within 90 days.

Speaking at the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of MIREMCO chairpersons held in Abuja, Dr Alake made it clear that the committee is not meeting expectations in mediating between federal authorities, subnational entities, local communities, and mining operators to prevent conflicts and ensure compliance with environmental and mining regulations.

In a statement signed by Mr Segun Tomori, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, Dr Alake expressed disappointment with MIREMCO’s performance, noting that the presidency is unimpressed by the execution of its mandate.

He said, “The Federal Government relies on your reports regarding the activities or inactivity of operators and their compliance with environmental regulations and sectoral guidelines. We are not satisfied with how this mandate is being executed, and we will not hesitate to take action if the committee fails to improve after 90 days.”

Citing Section 19, Subsection 3(g) of the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act (NMMA) 2007, Dr. Alake stressed MIREMCO’s legal obligation to serve as a liaison among stakeholders. He pointed out the committee’s ineffective execution of this responsibility, which has resulted in unwarranted interference by subnational governments in mining operations.

“If the provisions of the Act had been effectively implemented, the interference by state and local governments—such as shutting down mines and issuing unconstitutional policy pronouncements—would have been minimized. This failure has emboldened states to encroach on areas beyond their constitutional authority,” the minister added.

He also noted the significant representation of state governments in MIREMCO, including state-nominated chairpersons and five out of ten committee members, ensuring that subnational interests are incorporated into its operations.

Dr. Alake then urged MIREMCO chairpersons to mobilise their members and revitalise the committee’s efforts. He warned that failure to comply within the specified period would lead to decisive action from the Federal Government to restore order in the management of Nigeria’s mineral resources.

The minister assured attendees of the Federal Government’s support, including improved funding in the 2025 fiscal year and regular engagements to strengthen MIREMCO’s capacity to address the committee’s challenges.

“We are committed to providing the necessary resources and platforms to enable MIREMCO to fulfil its mandate. However, this commitment must be accompanied by measurable improvements in performance,” the minister noted.