The Federal Government has made a significant decision to suspend all mining operations in the vicinity of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC) in Ile-Ife, Osun State. This decision was reached after a meeting between the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, OAU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adebayo Bamire, and the Chief Medical Director of OAUTHC, Prof. John Okeniyi.
At the meeting, Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, announced that the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development took immediate action to investigate reports of unauthorized mining activities near the university. As a result, all mining activities, whether legal or illegal, have been indefinitely suspended around the university and its teaching hospital.
Additionally, the minister stated that the decision to suspend mining activities was based on initial reports of unauthorized activities around the university premises. Further investigation is required to verify the authenticity of licenses and letters of consent presented by mining operators summoned by the ministry.
Prof. Adebayo Bamire, the Vice-Chancellor of OAU, expressed appreciation to the minister for the decision and emphasized the university’s potential to contribute to exploration, research, and the broader mining value chain. He also expressed optimism regarding the university’s application for an exploration license, which would facilitate exploration activities and support the development of the mining sector.
The meeting was also attended by the Registrar, Kamarudeen Bakare; the Head of the Department of Geology & Geophysics, Prof. Olatokunbo Alao; the Director of Physical Planning, Dr. Anthony Owolabi; and the Director of Maintenance Services, Engr. Olawuyi Isaac. Additionally, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of OAU Teaching Hospital, Prof. John Okeniyi, participated in the meeting virtually.
The indefinite suspension of mining activities around OAU and its vicinity represents a significant step in safeguarding the university’s environment and resources, as well as in creating potential partnerships in exploration and mining. As investigations continue, it is crucial for all parties involved to collaborate in upholding ethical mining practices and preserving the environment’s integrity.
In conclusion, the collaboration between the Federal Government and OAU sets a positive precedent for addressing environmental concerns and fostering responsible mining practices. It also underscores the importance of engaging with educational institutions as valuable partners in the sustainable development of the mining sector.