The Niger State Government has lifted the suspension imposed on all mining activities in the state.
The state’s acting governor, Yakubu Garba, disclosed this while inaugurating a task force to tackle illegal mining and environmental degradation in the state.
According to a statement issued by the chief press secretary to the governor, Bologi Ibrahim, the acting governor observed that the mining industry is crucial for economic growth, regretting that illegal mining activities have negatively affected the environment.
He disclosed that from the records available, there are 880 registered mining companies made up of 578 companies and 302 cooperatives in the state.
He, however, said only about 261 reported for profiling.
Mr Yakubu expressed confidence that the taskforce will enforce regulations and ensure responsible mining practices.
According to the governor, the committee’s terms of reference include monitoring, identifying, and reporting 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.
Other responsibilities of the committee include identifying types of mineral titles held by companies; determining compliance with extant mining laws; and examining other matters that may be connected with the successful implementation of the assignments of the task force, among others.
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, Mr Garba promised 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”, he said.
Speaking on behalf of the members, the secretary to the state government and who also doubles as chairman of the task force, Abubakar Usman, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged to work diligently to meet the terms of reference and deliver the desired outcomes.
The task force has the SSG as the Chairman, the Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Sabo Yahaya as the Co-Chairman, and 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 SSS, Commandant on of NSCDC, commandant of vigilante, all the 25 council chairmen, the secretaries of all the eight rmirate councils, representatives of the State Assembly, and the judiciary, among others.
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