The House of Representatives has slammed several Chinese-led mining companies for flouting Nigerian laws and avoiding parliamentary oversight, threatening to revoke their licences over non-compliance.
The House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals has decried widespread violations of Nigerian laws by mining companies, particularly those owned by Chinese nationals. Chairing the probe into illegal mining activities, Hon. Jonathan Gaza criticised the persistent evasion of legislative oversight and warned of imminent licence revocations.
“We are taken aback by the brazen disregard,” Gaza said, citing companies like Arab Contractors and Viva Mines for failing to honour invitations. He added, “No level of foreign investment can justify the violation of Nigerian laws or the endangerment of local communities.”
The committee noted regulatory lapses such as lack of environmental impact assessments and community development agreements. Vivian Okono, Director of Mining and Environmental Control, confirmed low sector compliance but said reforms were in progress.
She stated, “CDAs must function as living agreements that genuinely reflect the aspirations of the communities involved.”
The committee pledged to work with the Ministry of Solid Minerals to sanction erring firms and uphold Nigeria’s environmental and social standards.