The Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr Dele Alake, says foreign illegal miners are funding banditry in Nigeria.
He made the remarks while briefing state house media on Monday, shortly after the Federal Executive Council met at the State House in Abuja.
He did, however, assure that his ministry is taking strides to introduce new technologies into the mining sector in order to address the situation and ensure that Nigeria reaps the greatest benefits from the solid minerals sector.
He stated that his ministry is working with the Nigerian armed forces and other security authorities to improve security in areas where solid minerals are abundant.
Alake disclosed that the Federal Executive Council approved a draft policy document on the solid minerals sector which highlights measures to be taken for adequate utilization of the country’s mineral resources.
He expressed optimism that solid minerals will soon become a major source of funding for the country’s budget.