On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, the Nigerian Senate passed the Nigeria Mines Rangers Service Establishment Bill 2025 to combat illegal mining and bolster oversight in the mining sector. The bill’s passage followed a report by Senator Ekong Samson, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development, during plenary.
The proposed Mines Rangers Service will act as a specialized enforcement agency responsible for securing mining sites and ensuring compliance with Nigeria’s mining laws. Senate President Godswill Akpabio hailed the bill as a critical step to enhance regulation under the existing Mining Act, stating, “This timely intervention will strengthen our framework and ensure proper management of Nigeria’s mineral resources.”
Senator Garba Maidoki (Kebbi South) supported the bill, emphasizing the service’s role in monitoring mining operations nationwide. “The Rangers will be our eyes on the ground, safeguarding our resources and protecting investments,” he said, noting the growing presence of major mining investors in Nigeria. The bill passed its third reading after consideration in the committee of the whole, marking a significant move to secure the country’s mineral wealth.
