Philips calls for policy intervention, tighter monitoring, and a renewed commitment to safeguard the nation’s mineral wealth for the benefit of current and future generations....

A hybrid press conference has drawn fresh attention to the growing concerns surrounding illegal mining activities involving Chinese nationals in Nigeria.

The event, which was held in Lagos southwest Nigeria, brought together stakeholders, activists, and members of the media to examine what many describe as an alarming trend in the nation’s solid minerals sector.

The conference, themed “The Chinese Infiltration of Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Sector,” highlighted the increasing dominance of Chinese operators within the mining industry a dominance that continues to expand without any significant effort to develop local capacity or train Nigerian miners.

Speakers noted that this unchecked infiltration has not only weakened indigenous participation but has also raised deeper questions about environmental degradation, loss of revenue, and national security.

Convener of the launch, the Executive Director

Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI), Philip Jakpor delivered a passionate call to action, urging the Federal Government to urgently reassess the state of the mining industry.

He warned that Nigeria risks losing full control of one of its most valuable sectors if decisive steps are not taken.

According to Philips, Chinese miners have entrenched themselves so deeply that many local communities now rely on them for mining operations, often with little oversight and minimal economic benefit to Nigerians.

He stressed that Nigeria possesses vast, untapped mineral resources capable of generating enormous revenue for the country. But without proper regulation, stronger enforcement, and deliberate efforts to empower Nigerian miners, he said this potential will continue slipping into foreign hands.