Niger state’s government inaugurated a taskforce to tackle illegal mining. Chaired by Alhaji Abubakar Usman and co-chaired by Alhaji Sabon Yahaya, the taskforce aims to monitor illegal operations, ensure law compliance, and report child labour and security issues in mining areas. The government aims to improve local investments and tackle related community insecurities.
The Niger government has established a taskforce dedicated to addressing illegal mining in the state. The initiative was launched by Acting Governor Yakubu Garba in Minna on Monday, during which he announced a conditional lifting of the previously imposed ban on illegal mining activities. The taskforce’s responsibilities include: – Monitoring and reporting illegal mining sites – Identifying and addressing child labour on mining sites – Ensuring compliance with the executive order against illegal mining – Profiling mining companies within the state – Reporting security issues in mining host communities – Detecting non-compliance of companies regarding revenue and royalties owed to the state – Investigating types of mineral titles held by companies and their conformity with existing mining laws. Governor Garba highlighted that out of 578 registered mining companies and 302 mining cooperatives, only 261 had been profiled by the Ministry of Mineral Resources. He suggested that thorough profiling could attract local and foreign investments, supported by detailed mineral resource data. He also referenced ongoing security challenges, linking them to mineral deposits in affected communities. Alhaji Abubakar Usman, appointed as the chairman of the taskforce, expressed gratitude for the opportunity and committed to fulfilling their duties efficiently. Other key members of the taskforce include the Commissioner for Mineral Resources, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, the Commissioner for Homeland Security, the Commissioner of Police, the Director of DSS, representatives from local councils, emirates, and the state assembly.
The issue of illegal mining has been significant in Niger state, prompting government action to address the impacts on local communities and the economy. The establishment of the taskforce signifies a strategic approach to monitor and regulate mining activities, ensuring compliance with national laws and enhancing the state’s revenue from mining. Furthermore, the initiative aims to improve community security and economic stability by engaging stakeholders in the mining sector.
The creation of a taskforce by the Niger government to combat illegal mining reflects a proactive step towards better regulation of the mining industry. With specific responsibilities assigned to track mining activities and improve compliance, the initiative aims to bolster the state’s revenue while addressing security challenges linked to mining operations.
Original Source: www.pulse.ng