The Struggle to Regulate Mining in Nigeria: A Candid Account from Athan Achonu
Athan Achonu, the gubernatorial candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in Imo State, recently delivered a poignant address regarding the intricate challenges associated with the regulation of mining in Nigeria. During a press briefing over the weekend, Achonu, a former member of the Senate, expressed profound disappointment at the rejection of a pivotal bill intended to establish definitive protocols for the mining industry in the nation.
Despite acknowledging the tremendous potential of the mining sector to profoundly impact the Nigerian economy, Achonu underscored the persistent hardships impeding the much-needed advancements due to the configuration of the National Assembly. He bemoaned the barriers obstructing the progress of the industry, notably citing the recent setback encountered with the non-approval of the mining bill.
In addition to deliberating on the issues surrounding mining regulation, Achonu also dispelled any misconceptions regarding allegations of being handpicked as an LP candidate by Governor Hope Uzodimma. He emphatically asserted that his decision to vie for the gubernatorial position in the forthcoming election on November 11 is propelled by an earnest desire to liberate Imo State from the clutches of insecurity and destitution.
Athan Achonu remained reticent about the specifics of his strategies to metamorphose Imo State, but he conveyed unwavering dedication to implementing measures designed to foster local government autonomy. Moreover, he expressed his resolve to attract investors to the energy sector, establish agricultural and oil as well as gas processing zones, and ultimately propel industrial growth in the state.
Through the explication of his insights and aspirations, Athan Achonu has provided an illuminating narrative of the challenges intertwined with the regulation of mining in Nigeria. As the nation grapples with the imperative for comprehensive reforms within the mining sector, Achonu’s unequivocal remarks shed light on the intricacies and hurdles that must be surmounted to engender meaningful progress.
