The Nigerian Senate has approved a bill to establish the Nigeria Mines Rangers Service, a new agency that will help combat illegal mining and improve security across mining communities nationwide.

The approval followed the adoption of a report presented by the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development, chaired by Senator Ekong Samson, during Tuesday’s plenary. According to Samson, the new agency will provide a structured system to monitor mining activities, enforce environmental and safety regulations, and ensure sustainable mining practices across the country.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Mohammed Ogoshi Onawo, aims to protect mining sites, regulate operations, and safeguard host communities affected by the menace of illegal mining. Lawmakers who contributed to the debate described the Mines Rangers Service as a much-needed initiative to address the growing cases of insecurity and exploitation in resource-rich areas.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the session, commended the lawmakers for supporting the bill, noting that it would help bring order to the mining sector. He stated that the establishment of the Mines Rangers Service would “strengthen existing mining laws, protect national resources, and improve government revenue.”

Once signed into law, the Mines Rangers Service will operate as a special enforcement and monitoring agency, creating employment opportunities while enhancing Nigeria’s capacity to manage and protect its mineral wealth effectively.