The House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals has threatened to recommend the revocation of mining licenses for companies operating quarries across Nigeria, citing illegal operations and disregard for legislative oversight.
Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Jonathan Gaza Gbefwi (Keffi/Karu/Kokona, Nasarawa State), issued the warning during an investigative hearing into mining activities nationwide.
He specifically ordered Arab Contractors and Omatek to either present valid documentation authorizing their quarry operations or shut down immediately.
Gbefwi expressed strong displeasure over the failure of many quarry operators to honour the Committee’s summons, calling it a clear violation of Nigerian law.
“It is unacceptable for companies to operate within Nigeria while disobeying our laws and refusing legislative oversight,” he said.
The lawmaker revealed that a recent oversight visit to several quarry sites in the Federal Capital Territory exposed widespread non-compliance, including failure to fulfill community development obligations.
He further noted that many companies had only technical staff on-site in Nigeria, while key executives—particularly foreign nationals from China—remained abroad, raising accountability concerns.
“We welcome foreign investment, but not at the expense of our people. Host communities must not be subjected to exploitation or denied the benefits outlined in signed agreements,” Gbefwi stated.
He added that Arab Contractors were found operating an illegal quarry without necessary approvals from regulatory authorities.
Beyond recommending suspension, Gbefwi warned that the Committee may push for full license revocation against defaulters who continue to flout Nigerian laws.
