By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
Ajao Adewale, Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has disclosed that illegal mining has evolved into a powerful, cartel-controlled business funded by influential Nigerians.
This illicit trade is driving banditry and costing the nation an estimated $9 billion (₦13.7 trillion) every year. Speaking at a media briefing organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council on “The Fight Against Illegal Mining: Role of the Media, in Abuja, Adewale described illegal mining as one of Nigeria’s most serious national security threats.
He identified Zamfara, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kaduna, Niger, Kwara, Osun, and parts of the FCT as major hotspots. Notably, over 72 suspects connected to illegal mining were arrested in Abuja alone between 2023 and 2024. Adewale emphasized that without strong cooperation between security agencies and the media, these criminal cartels will continue to prosper.
In her remarks, Grace Ike, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, called on journalists to move beyond basic reporting. She urged them to engage in investigative journalism that uncovers the financiers behind illegal mining, gives voice to affected communities, and exerts pressure on policymakers. By providing balanced and accurate coverage, the media can shed light on the hidden dangers, highlight the human and environmental toll, and compel authorities to take decisive action.
