Nigeria Halts Mining Operations at University and Surrounding Area
The Nigerian government has made the decision to indefinitely suspend all mining activities in the vicinity of Obafemi Awolowo University and Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex in Ile-Ife, Osun State. This suspension will remain in effect until a comprehensive investigation into suspected illegal mining has been completed.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, announced this decision after engaging in discussions with the Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Professor Adebayo Bamire, and the Chief Medical Director of OAUTHC, Professor John Okeniyi. The decision to suspend mining operations was prompted by reports in the media concerning illegal mining activities in the area.
Dr. Alake stated that officials from the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency and Mines Inspectorate were dispatched to conduct an on-site assessment following the reports. Initial findings confirmed the presence of mining activities in the area, and consequently, the ministry decided to cease all mining operations, whether legal or illegal, in order to conduct a thorough investigation.
Additionally, the Minister disclosed that certain operators engaged in illegal mining had presented licenses and letters of consent. These documents will be thoroughly scrutinized to verify their authenticity. This prompted the summoning of the university authorities to participate in the discussions.
During the meeting, Professor Bamire expressed the university’s gratitude for the opportunity to engage in discussions with the Minister. He also emphasised the university’s expertise and potential in the field of geology and mining. The Vice-Chancellor articulated the university’s aspiration to establish a first-class research and training facility focused on mineral resources, which could contribute to the overall development of the mining sector.
Furthermore, the university has applied for an exploration license with the hope of contributing to the discovery and assessment of mineral resources within the university’s surroundings and beyond. The meeting was attended by other prominent figures from the university, including the Registrar, Head of Department of Geology & Geophysics, Director of Physical Planning, and Director of Maintenance Services.
Therefore, the suspension of mining activities is a proactive measure undertaken by the Nigerian government to address concerns related to illegal mining activities in the vicinity of the university. This decision aims to safeguard the educational environment and its surroundings while ensuring that all mining activities are conducted in accordance with the law. The involvement of the university in the discussion underscores its potential to contribute to the development of the mining sector in Nigeria.
