Reps To Revoke Licences Of Quarries For Shunning Legislative Summons

The House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals has threatened to recommend the revocation of mining licenses for companies operating quarries in the country that fail to comply with regulations or honour legislative summons

The Chairman of the Committee, Jonathan Gbefwi, gave the warning at an investigation hearing into the activities of mining companies in Nigeria.

Gbefwi expressed shock at the evasive behaviour of some company executives and warned that licenses would be suspended or revoked for non-compliant firms.

He specifically ordered Arab Contractors and Omatek to present documents authorizing their quarry operations or be shut down immediately.

The committee’s investigation revealed poor environmental practices and disregard for host communities, with some companies lacking valid environmental and social impact assessments, community development agreements, and environmental protection plans.

Gbefwi emphasized that foreign investment would not be tolerated if it meant host communities were subjected to inhumane conditions and denied benefits promised under signed agreements.

“The committee will begin liaising with the Ministry of Solid Minerals to ensure swift action is taken against errant firms. No amount of foreign direct investment justifies the flouting of Nigerian laws or endangering the lives and welfare of our people,” Gbefwi said.

Responding to the concerns, Director of the Mining and Environmental Control Department, Vivian Okono acknowledged the low level of compliance across the industry but said reforms were underway.

“When I assumed office in March 2022, compliance with environmental and social regulations was abysmally low,” Okono said. “We’ve since revised the 2014 guidelines in November 2023 to strengthen enforcement and community engagement.”

She explained that under Section 116 of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, companies are required to submit detailed environmental and social plans before operations begin.

These she said include the Environmental Protection and Rehabilitation Program (EPRP) and annual reclamation statements.

“Chapter 3 of the revised guideline mandates thorough engagement with host and impacted communities,” she added.

“Companies must consult with local leaders, identify needs, and agree on developmental projects, ranging from road construction to educational infrastructure before commencing mining.”

Okono emphasized that mining should be a blessing to communities, not a curse.

“Resources deposited in these regions are meant to benefit the people,” she said. “We’ve put systems in place to ensure that CDAs are not just documents, but living agreements that truly reflect the aspirations of host communities.”

The House Committee said it will begin liaising with the Ministry of Solid Minerals to ensure swift action is taken against errant firms.

“Let it be clear, this House will not condone lawlessness in the name of investment. We will defend the dignity of our laws and the welfare of our people at all costs, “the chairman concluded.

The investigation continues, with more companies expected to be summoned in the coming days.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji