FG, 32 States Constitute Committee To Address Issus In Mining Sector

The Federal Government and governors from 32 states have agreed to establish a joint committee aimed at resolving prevailing issues in the mining sector in the country.

The agreement was reached at a meeting between the Nigerian Governors Forum, chaired by Kwara State Governor AbdulRasak Abdulrahman and the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Oladele Alake in Abuja.

Dr. Alake explained that the Federal Government was dedicated to integrate state inputs in refining the mining sector’s policies and procedures.

“Our goal is to operate transparently and procedurally under the constitutional framework, avoiding any public perception of discord between federal and state authorities,” Alake said.

He stressed that in the constitution, solid minerals fall under the exclusive legislative list, which requires states to seek the ministry’s approval before issuing mining-related policies.

The Minister also commended states that had proactively engaged with the federal directive to apply for mining licenses.

“Several states have stepped forward with applications, and we have promptly approved these, encouraging their active participation and ensuring they benefit from our national resources,” he stressed.

He added that the formation of the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO), where the influence of states is significant, with five members plus a chairman nominated by the governors within a 10-member panel, MIREMCO is poised in addressing mining management and environmental challenges.

On his part, the Ogun state Governor Dapo Abiodun underscored the necessity for collaborative frameworks that would allow state involvement in the licensing process.

“It is imperative that we have a say in how mining licenses are issued, ensuring our specific interests and environmental concerns are addressed,” Governor Abiodun stated.

Also, the Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, and his Niger State counterpart, Umar Bago, called for more tailored consultations to tackle unique regional challenges within the mining sector.

There was a resolution from the meeting for a united call for enhanced cooperation to facilitate reforms in the mining sector and amplify its contribution to Nigeria’s GDP and national revenue.

The minister and the governors also committed to continual dialogue and the development of effective collaboration strategies to eliminate obstacles hindering the mining industry’s growth.

By Georgina Humphrey, Edited By Grace Namiji