Regulating Mining Activities in Nasarawa: A Partnership for Development

The Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office (NMCO) affirms its commitment to collaborating closely with the Nasarawa State Government to address the issue of illicit mining activities that have been negatively impacting the peace and development of the state. In a recent courtesy visit to the Government House in Lafia, the Director General of NMCO, Obadiah Simon Nkom, reassured Governor Abdullahi Sule of the agency’s dedication to regulating mining activities and ensuring the security of mining sites in the state.

The concerns raised by the Nasarawa State Government regarding the environmental impact and security threats posed by illicit mining activities have been duly acknowledged by the NMCO. Established in 2007 under the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, the agency is vested with the responsibility to administer and manage mineral titles in Nigeria, as well as to provide an efficient and transparent Mining Cadastre system.

In his address to Governor Abdullahi Sule, Nkom underscored the importance of regulating the mining industry in Nasarawa State while also acknowledging the challenges faced by communities, landowners, and operators in the sector. He emphasized the need for responsible and regulated mining practices to ensure that the state’s wealth benefits its people and contributes to the overall development of the region.

Governor Abdullahi Sule, in response, expressed his concerns about the unrest caused by illicit mining activities and welcomed the NMCO’s commitment to partnering with the state government to address these issues. He highlighted the enormous opportunities in the mining sector and stressed the need for proper regulation to prevent the negative impact of illicit mining on communities and the environment. The Governor also called for stricter adherence to Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requirements for prospective mining companies operating in Nasarawa State.

Additionally, Governor Sule shared positive news about the growing interest in the state’s mining sector, particularly in the discovery of lucrative minerals such as lithium. He announced that a private firm has proposed a significant investment in building a lithium factory, signaling further potential for the state’s mining industry.

The partnership between the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office and the Nasarawa State Government signifies a concerted effort to address the challenges and opportunities in the state’s mining sector. By regulating mining activities and promoting responsible practices, the aim is to ensure sustainable development and economic growth for Nasarawa State and its communities.