Niger State Government has inaugurated a Task Force on illegal mining in the State to tackle environmental degradation.
The Acting Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba inaugurated the Task Force at the Government House, Minna.
The Task Force is to Monitor, identify, and report the illegal mining sites in Niger State; Monitor, identify and report child labour on mining sites in the State; Monitor and report security challenges in mining host communities.
Also, to identify types of minerals tittles held by companies; Determine compliance with extant mining laws; and Examine other matters that may be connected with successful implementation of the assignments of the Task Force, among other Terms of Reference.
The Acting Governor observes that the mining industry is crucial for the economic growth but that illegal mining activities have negatively affected the environment, which was why the State government had earlier suspended mining activities in the State.
He disclosed that from the record available, there are 880 registered mining companies made up of 578 Companies and 302 Cooperatives in the State, and only about 261 reported for profiling.
The Acting Governor says with the inauguration of the Task Force, the ban on illegal mining has been suspended conditionally, expressing confidence that the Task Force will enforce regulations and ensure responsible mining practices.
While urging the Task Force to ensure fair and just practices as well as take action against those that operate outside the law to secure the future of the State, Comrade Garba promise to fully support the Task Force.
According to him, “Let’s work together to build a sustainable mining sector that benefits everyone.
“Our collective efforts will define Niger State’s future. We can ensure that our mineral resources are harnessed for the greater good, creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and enhancing our communities’ quality of life”.
The Secretary to the State Government and Chairman of the Task Force, Alh. Abubakar Usman, on behalf of other members, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged to work diligently to meet the terms of reference and deliver the desired outcomes.
The Director General, Mineral Resources Niger State, Demola Banjo, who is also part of the Task Force, in an interview said the Task Force is long overdue as the sector has over the years been exploited without regulation and control.
The Task Force has the SSG as the Chairman, the Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Alh. Sabo Yahaya as the Co-Chairman, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry will serve as the Secretary Mohammed Yunusa Nahauni.
Other members of the Task Force are the Commissioner for Homeland Security, Commissioner of Police, Director of DSS, Commandant on of NSCDC, Commandant of Vigilante, all the 25 Council Chairmen, Secretaries of all the 8 Emirate Councils, representatives of State Assembly, Judiciary among others.
Bologi Ibrahim
Chief Press Secretary
to the Governor of Niger State
26/8/2024.
