The Nigerian Senate has approved the establishment of the Nigeria Mines Rangers Service, a new specialized agency designed to combat illegal mining and strengthen security in mineral-producing communities across the country.
The approval followed the consideration and adoption of a report presented by the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development, chaired by Senator Ekong Samson, during Tuesday’s plenary session.
According to Senator Samson, the new Mines Rangers Service will “provide a structured framework to monitor mining activities, enforce safety and environmental regulations, and promote sustainable mining practices.”
The bill, sponsored by Senator Mohammed Ogoshi Onawo, seeks to protect mining sites, regulate mineral extraction, and safeguard the welfare of host communities affected by illegal mining operations.
Lawmakers who contributed to the debate lauded the initiative as a crucial step toward addressing the rising incidents of illegal mining, environmental degradation, and insecurity in resource-rich regions.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the session, emphasized that the agency’s establishment would enhance existing mining laws and promote accountability in the solid minerals sector.
“This bill, when signed into law, will help protect our natural resources, create employment opportunities, and increase government revenue,” Akpabio said.
The passage of the bill marks another major stride by the National Assembly in reforming Nigeria’s extractive industry and ensuring better management of the country’s mineral wealth.
