The Federal Government has issued a formal warning to mining companies, urging them to adhere to the nation’s updated Community Development Agreements (CDAs) or face potential sanctions. Dr Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, conveyed this directive at the recent inaugural BusinessDay Solid Minerals Conference, themed “Digging Deeper: Diversifying Nigeria’s Economy for Wealth Creation.”
At the event, the minister commended BusinessDay for its commitment to journalistic ethics and the dissemination of independent and analytical information. He remarked on the vital role played by the media in upholding the principles of balanced reporting and transparency, especially during the early stages of the current civilian administration.
Emphasising the government’s ongoing efforts to advance its seven-point agenda, Dr Dele Alake highlighted the proposed establishment of the Nigerian Solid Minerals Corporation, which has progressed to an advanced stage. He also revealed plans for an ambitious integrated exploration project covering the expansive 923,768 square kilometres of the nation’s landscape. The minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, affirmed that the administration was actively exploring funding options to support this significant initiative.
A key focus of the government’s agenda is the prioritisation of security around mining sites and natural resources. To this end, President Bola Tinubu has initiated the formation of an inter-ministerial committee, with the minister serving as its chairperson. The committee is tasked with addressing security concerns related to mining activities and safeguarding the nation’s valuable resources.
However, the mining industry has recently faced tragedy in Bauchi State, where several women lost their lives due to a mining pit collapse in the Gudum Sayawa suburb of Bauchi metropolis. It was reported that the mining site, located 800 metres from the community, is frequented by villagers who extract various minerals such as monoxide, zaicon, and other precious stones for commercial purposes.
Eyewitnesses recounted that the cave collapse resulted in the immediate deaths of three women, with one individual succumbing to injuries a week later at the hospital. This unfortunate incident draws parallels to a similar occurrence in 2023 at a mining site in Bar Kudu, Bogoro Local Council, where three women lost their lives and numerous others sustained injuries.
These recent events underscore the critical importance of ensuring adherence to safety regulations and comprehensive risk assessments within the mining sector. As the Federal Government continues to advance its commitments to sustainable development and economic diversification, cooperation from all stakeholders, including mining companies, is imperative to promote the well-being of communities and safeguard the lives of individuals engaged in these essential economic activities.