The Chief of Defence Staff has raised fresh concerns about how terrorist groups are funding their operations in Nigeria, revealing that gold has become a key source of financial support for these insurgent networks. This disclosure has heightened fears about the security and regulation of Nigeria's natural resources, especially in volatile regions.
Speaking at a recent security briefing, the Defence Chief explained that intelligence gathered over recent months indicates a disturbing trend where illegal gold mining and trade have become major revenue channels for terrorists. These proceeds are reportedly used to purchase arms, pay fighters, and sustain terror cells across various locations in the country.
This revelation exposes the vulnerability in Nigeria’s resource governance and the loopholes in monitoring mineral activities, especially in remote regions such as Zamfara, Kaduna, and parts of Niger State — areas already plagued by insecurity and illegal mining operations.
He noted that while oil theft has historically drawn more attention, the gold trade has operated under the radar, with criminal groups exploiting weak regulatory oversight. This has allowed them to smuggle gold through unregulated routes into international black markets in exchange for cash or weapons.
The Defence Chief called for stronger collaboration between security forces, the Ministry of Solid Minerals, and international partners to track the illicit trade of gold and identify the financial trail leading to these terror groups. “We need a unified approach to trace and dismantle these funding lines,” he said.
Experts have long warned that illegal mining not only drains the economy but also destabilizes local communities, creates environmental damage, and — as now revealed — serves as a lifeline for extremist groups. The new information puts added pressure on the government to tighten its grip on mining regulations and border control.
Meanwhile, civil society organizations are calling for transparency and reform within the mining sector. They argue that community-level sensitization and stricter licensing policies can help reduce the rate of illegal mining and prevent exploitation by terrorist networks.
The Defence Chief also urged traditional leaders and local vigilantes to assist in identifying suspicious mining activities and unknown buyers in their communities. “Security starts at the grassroots,” he emphasized.
This revelation may influence the government’s broader security strategy going forward. Analysts believe that cutting off funding sources is as crucial as direct military action in defeating terrorism.
As the nation continues to battle terrorism on multiple fronts, the spotlight now turns to its precious natural resources — and how what’s meant to be a blessing is being turned into a tool of destruction. Immediate and sustained action will be required to end this dangerous gold-fueled network.
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