The Miners Association of Nigeria, MAN, has expressed concern over the rising cost of service fees in the mining sector.
The Association’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Fatai Jimoh, stated this in an interview with newsmen at the 10th edition of the Nigeria Miners’ Week in Abuja,
Jimoh who said it is becoming difficult for indigenous miners to keep up noted that the cost of annual service fees has increased significantly over the past year.
He explained that while the mining sector holds great potential, local miners need more support to grow and thrive.
“We want to see more participation from local miners, and that means creating a system that supports their efforts and helps them succeed.” He noted.
The MAN spokesman suggested that a tiered fee system could help, where local and foreign operators pay different rates based on their size and capacity.
Mr.Jimoh also stressed the need for better access to funding and training, encouraging the government to increase support for indigenous miners through grants and financial programs.
He added that Miners’ Week has grown into an important platform, bringing together both local and international stakeholders to explore opportunities in the sector.
According to him, the Miners Association remains hopeful that with the right policies and support, Nigeria’s mining industry can become a major contributor to national development.
He also emphasized the importance of government support, particularly in the areas of funding, access to equipment, training, and capacity-building.
According to him, many indigenous miners face challenges accessing financial assistance, which limits their ability to scale up and operate sustainably.
“We believe that with proper funding and training, local miners can contribute significantly to national development and job creation” he emphasized
He praised the growth of Miners’ Week, saying what started as a local gathering has now grown into a well-recognized platform that attracts attention from stakeholders within and outside Nigeria. The event provides an opportunity for dialogue, networking, and showcasing innovations in the mining sector.
Jimoh explained that the goal, according to stakeholders, is to build a stronger, more inclusive mining industry — one that benefits local communities and contributes to the country’s economic growth.
As conversations continue at Miners’ Week, the Association hopes that government agencies and private partners will work together to ensure that indigenous miners receive the support they need to thrive.
