House Committee probes foreign and local firms over widespread non-compliance, environmental abuse, and disregard for parliamentary oversight in Nigeria’s mining sector.
The House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals has intensified its investigation into illegal mining across Nigeria. It named several companies, particularly Chinese-owned firms, for violating mining laws in Nigeria and evading parliamentary oversight.
Speaking at a high-level engagement at the National Assembly this week, Committee Chairman Rep. Jonathan Gaza condemned what he described as “commotious operations” and the blatant disregard for national legislation. He noted that many company executives, especially from Chinese firms, have persistently failed to honour invitations from Parliament.
“We were quite taken aback by the brazen disregard for our laws. Most of these companies, especially those owned by Chinese nationals, have deliberately refused to appear before the Parliament of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“It is unacceptable that the managing directors of some of these firms reside in China and leave only technical staff to manage Nigerian operations.”
Among the companies flagged for non-compliance or absence at the hearing were Arab Contractors, Selsing Stone Limited, and Homerset. Others include Kaji Investments. Zeyin Jinja Investment Limited, Hasba Group of Companies, Viva Mines, Venus Mining Company, Tim Cornerstone, and Inorganic Earth (Saigon’s Investment Limited).
“If these companies fail to appear before the expiration of this sitting, we will move for the outright suspension – and possibly the cancellation – of their licenses,” the chairman declared.
“No amount of foreign direct investment justifies the flouting of Nigerian laws or endangering the lives and welfare of our people.” Gaza warned.
The committee’s concerns are rooted in findings from recent site inspections. These uncovered alarming environmental degradation, lack of community engagement, and widespread regulatory violations. Many of the firms reportedly failed to secure critical documents. These include Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA), Community Development Agreements (CDA), and Environmental Protection Plans (EPP). All are mandatory under the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act.
Mining Law Violations in Nigeria Prompt Tighter Oversight and Community-Centered Reforms
Responding to the committee’s concerns, Vivian Okono, Director of the Mining and Environmental Control Department, acknowledged low compliance across the industry. She, however, noted that reforms are underway.
“When I assumed office in March 2022, compliance with environmental and social regulations was abysmally low.
“We’ve since revised the 2014 guidelines in November 2023 to strengthen enforcement and community engagement,” Okono said.
On mining law violations in Nigeria, Okono highlighted Section 116 of the Act. It mandates companies to submit detailed environmental and rehabilitation plans before starting operations. She also cited Chapter 3 of the revised guidelines. It requires consultations with local leaders on community development priorities.
“Resources deposited in these regions are meant to benefit the people,” she said. “We’ve put systems in place to ensure that CDAs are not just documents, but living agreements that truly reflect the aspirations of host communities.”
The House Committee vowed to work closely with the Ministry of Solid Minerals. Their goal is to enforce compliance and ensure non-compliant companies face consequences.
“Let it be clear, this House will not condone lawlessness in the name of investment. We will defend the dignity of our laws and the welfare of our people at all costs” the chairman concluded.
The investigation is ongoing, with more companies expected to be summoned in the coming days.
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