EFCC Links Illegal Mining to Crime and Insecurity in Nigeria

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has connected illegal mining in Nigeria to increasing crime and insecurity. The EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, stated that criminal groups are taking advantage of weaknesses in the mining sector to support other illegal activities.

Olukoyede spoke at a public lecture in Ilorin, Kwara State, where he emphasized that efforts to combat illegal mining should focus on dismantling the networks of people who finance these operations, rather than just arresting those mining illegally.

He explained that illegal mining leads to various crimes, including extortion, smuggling, and violence. He noted that the money made from these activities can fund even more criminal acts. Olukoyede urged a shift in focus from merely regulating mining licenses to addressing the broader criminal networks involved.

Between October 2023 and July 2026, the EFCC reported 52 cases of illegal mining and seized over 100 tonnes of minerals. Investigations revealed complex networks involving both local and international players who finance mining operations and facilitate the sale of illegally obtained resources.

Olukoyede stressed the importance of tracking financial transactions linked to illegal mining to identify those profiting from it. He warned that public officials who misuse their positions to support illegal mining would face consequences.

The EFCC Chairman also called for better cooperation between various government agencies to improve information sharing and coordinate investigations. He encouraged local communities and leaders to report suspicious mining activities and urged organized labor to advocate for lawful mining practices.

Olukoyede reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to investigating those behind illegal mining and ensuring that Nigeria’s mineral resources benefit the citizens rather than criminal groups.