The Federal Government through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and Cross River State have enhanced their collaboration to sanitise the mining sector and address the issue of illegal mining operations in the state.
According to a statement issued by Segun Tomori, the Special Assistant on Media to the monister, Dele Alake, the partnership is to sanitise the mining sector, secure mining areas, and create a conducive environment for more investors
Speaking while receiving Cross-River State Governor, Bassey Otu, in his office on Tuesday in Abuja, the Solid Minerals minister, Dele Alake, highlighted that the visit exemplifies the renewed spirit of cooperation between the federal government and states in harnessing the nation’s mineral resources towards fostering economic development.
“The governor’s visit is a clear example of the collaboration we are aiming for between the federal government and subnational authorities. Our goal is to sanitise the mining sector, secure mining areas, and create a conducive environment for investors,” said the Minister.
Otu, on his part emphasised Cross River State’s commitment to leveraging its vast mineral resources for state development.
He stressed the importance of partnering with the ministry to combat illegal mining activities.
“We needed to come and look at the laws and regulations guiding proper mining processes. This will help us make informed decisions in collaboration with the federal government to clean up the mining sector.
“We are also exploring Public-Private Partnerships to tap into our vast solid mineral potential,” Governor Otu asserted.
He also revealed that the state is on the verge of joining other states in operating a mining company, having applied for a license as a limited liability company.
Illegal mining has been touted as a significant impediment to the development of solid minerals in Nigeria, undermining efforts to harness their full potential and hindering the growth of the sector.
Illegal mining is rife from Itagunmodi to Igun, Iyere, Igila, and other poor, gold-bearing areas in Osun State, and Kwali, Daki Takwas, Zugu, Wawan Icce, Yan Kaura, and other gold-bearing communities in Zamfara State, among other places. The Federal Government has disclosed that unlawful mining costs the country $9bn each year, with the only money coming from a 3 per cent royalty paid by the few licensed miners.
Despite the challenges, Dr Alake has prioritised tackling illegal mining to ensure Nigeria benefits from its vast mineral deposits and boost revenues.
