NASSCMS MINING WATCHDOG

Empowering Transparency: NASSCMS MINING WATCHDOG. National Artisanal and Small Scale Mining Cooperative, in partnership with various security stakeholders, is currently working on the establishment of a mining watchdog. This is a crucial step towards regulating and combating illegal mining activities. This collaborative effort can have several significant benefits:

Regulation and Compliance: This mining watchdog will help establish clear regulations and guidelines for artisanal and small-scale mining operations. This ensures that miners adhere to environmental, safety, and legal standards, reducing the negative impacts of mining activities.

Illegal Mining Deterrence: By actively monitoring mining activities, the watchdog will quickly identify and respond to illegal mining operations. This acts as a deterrent, making it more difficult for illegal miners to operate without fear of detection.

Resource Protection: Illegal mining often leads to environmental degradation, including deforestation, water pollution, and soil erosion. The watchdog will help protect natural resources by enforcing sustainable mining practices and holding operators accountable for any damage caused.

Revenue Generation: Legalizing and regulating artisanal and small-scale mining ensures that the government receives its fair share of revenue through taxes, royalties, and fees. This income can be reinvested in the development of local communities and infrastructure.

Conflict Prevention: Illegal mining has led to social conflicts, especially in areas with limited resources. We have seen its effect in Nigeria, especially in some parts of the country in recent times. Proper regulation will help mitigate these conflicts by ensuring fair access to mining resources and benefits.

Health and Safety Standards: This watchdog will help in enforcing health and safety standards to protect the well-being of miners. This includes providing proper training, equipment, and medical support.

Data Collection and Analysis: This watchdog will also help in harnessing valuable data on mining activities, which can be used for informed decision-making, resource management, and long-term planning.

Capacity Building and Education: The cooperative will offer training programs and workshops to educate miners about best practices, environmental conservation, and legal compliance. This will help to improve the overall professionalism and competence of the mining industry across Nigeria.

Community Engagement: The cooperative, in collaboration with security stakeholders can facilitate communication and cooperation between mining communities, local authorities, and law enforcement agencies. This fosters a sense of trust and cooperation, making it easier to address issues and concerns.

National Security and Sovereignty: Unregulated mining can lead to smuggling and other illicit activities, undermining national security and sovereignty. this mining watchdog will work closely with security agencies to prevent such activities across Nigeria.

International Reputation: Establishing a well-regulated mining sector improves a country’s international standing. It demonstrates a commitment to responsible resource management, which can attract responsible investments and partnerships.

In conclusion, the establishment of this mining watchdog led by the National Artisanal and Small Scale Mining Cooperative, in collaboration with security stakeholders,(NPF, DSS, CIVIL DEFENCE, COMMUNITY LEADERS, and MINES officers) is a critical step in combating illegal mining and ensuring sustainable and responsible mining practices. This collaborative effort has the potential to benefit the environment, local communities, and the nation as a whole.

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