Tinubu Seeks International Crime Status for Resource Theft, Illegal Mining!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on West African leaders and global partners to recognize resource theft, illegal mining, and mineral smuggling as international crimes, citing their destructive impact on regional peace, stability, and sustainable development.

What Happened:

• Speaking at the ECOWAS Mining and Petroleum Forum (ECOMOF) in Cotonou, Benin Republic, President Tinubu urged coordinated regional and international action.
• He stated that illegal exploitation of natural resources funds terrorism, worsens environmental degradation, and drains national revenues.

Quote:

“We must collectively criminalise these acts globally. They threaten our nations’ future and empower those who destabilise our region,” Tinubu said.

Why It Matters:

• Nigeria and several West African countries have long struggled with illegal mining networks and cross-border smuggling.
• Recognizing these offenses as international crimes could enable broader legal cooperation, sanctions, and accountability mechanisms.

Next Steps:

• Tinubu called for ECOWAS member states to adopt unified legislation and share intelligence.
• Nigeria plans to present the proposal at future African Union and United Nations forums.

Citations:

1. Premium Times – www.premiumtimesng.com
2. The Nation Nigeria www.thenationonlineng.net
3. ECOWAS Official Statement – October 2025

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