The Federal Government has imposed a nationwide ban on mining activities within a 10-kilometre radius of bridges, citing growing concerns over structural safety, erosion, and long-term damage to critical infrastructure. The directive was announced by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, following assessments that linked unregulated mining to the weakening of bridge foundations across several parts of the country.
According to Umahi, mining operations particularly illegal excavation of sand, gravel, and laterite have compromised the integrity of bridge substructures, increasing the risk of collapse and endangering lives. He stated that protecting national infrastructure must take precedence over short-term economic gains derived from mining activities.
The minister explained that many bridges were designed with specific load, soil, and hydrological assumptions that are being undermined by nearby mining. Excavation close to bridge pillars alters water flow patterns, accelerates erosion, and reduces soil stability, making structures vulnerable during heavy rainfall and flooding.
The ban applies to both licensed and unlicensed mining operations, with immediate effect. Umahi warned that violators would face strict sanctions, including prosecution, revocation of mining licenses, seizure of equipment, and possible closure of mining sites. Security agencies and relevant regulatory bodies have been directed to enforce compliance nationwide.
Nigeria has witnessed several cases of infrastructure failure linked to environmental degradation and poor regulation. While mining has long been recognized as an economic activity that supports livelihoods, experts say weak oversight has allowed destructive practices to flourish, often at the expense of public safety.
Environmental and civil engineering experts have welcomed the policy, describing it as overdue. They argue that bridge failures carry catastrophic economic and human costs, including loss of lives, disruption of trade routes, and expensive reconstruction efforts. Preventive regulation, they say, is far cheaper than emergency repairs.
However, concerns have been raised about enforcement. Critics note that illegal mining thrives largely due to corruption, inadequate monitoring, and weak inter-agency coordination. Without sustained enforcement, they warn, the ban could exist only on paper.
Small-scale miners and host communities have also expressed apprehension, fearing loss of income. Analysts argue that the government must complement the ban with alternative livelihood programs and clearer zoning policies to prevent social backlash and non-compliance.
Umahi acknowledged these concerns but insisted that national safety cannot be compromised. He stressed that mining must be carried out responsibly and in accordance with environmental and infrastructure protection standards.
The ban reflects a broader shift by the government toward safeguarding strategic assets amid rising climate risks and infrastructure strain. Whether it marks a turning point in enforcement or joins a long list of poorly implemented regulations will depend on political will and sustained oversight.
