FG, State Govts Partner To Curb Illegal Mining

To sanitise the mining sector and address the issue of illegal mining operations across the country both, the Federal and state governments are partnering to achieve this feat.

Minister of Solid Minerals development, Dr. Oladele Alake stated this when he hosted the Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassy Otu in his office in Abuja.

Dr. Alake explained that the cooperation between the federal government and states in harnessing the nation’s mineral resources would foster 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,” he added.

Earlier, the Cross River state Governor, Senator Bassey Otu emphasized the State’s commitment to leveraging its vast mineral resources for state development.

Governor Otu stressed that there is need to partner the Solid 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, “the Governor stated.

“We are also exploring Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to tap into our vast solid mineral potential,”

Governor Otu also revealed that his state is on the verge of joining other states in operating a mining company, having applied for a license as a limited liability company.

By Georgina Humphrey, Edited By Grace Namiji