OGUN, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The federal government through the office of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Mary Ogbe has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a conducive environment for responsible mining practices.
Dr. Ogbe disclose this during a one-day sensitization town hall meeting held in Abuja.
The meeting, organized by the Ministry’s Mines Environmental Compliance Department, focused on the environmental responsibilities of mineral title holders and other key stakeholders.
Represented by the Director of the Artisanal and Small-scale Department, Alhaji Yunusa Mohammed, Dr. Ogbe emphasized that the annual forum is crucial for promoting sustainable mining practices, environmental protection, and community involvement by mineral title holders and mining operators.
READ ALSO: Multiverse Mining Forecast N208m Revenue For Q3 2024
Addressing the participants, Dr. Ogbe urged industry stakeholders to prioritize environmentally sustainable operations. “The Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act of 2007 clearly outlines the environmental obligations that must be observed at every stage of mining operations—pre-commencement, commencement, and post-mining. The Federal Government remains dedicated to creating a supportive business environment for responsible mining,” she said, calling on stakeholders to work collectively to uphold environmentally sound mining practices.
Dr. Ogbe urged participants to align their operations with Nigeria’s regulatory frameworks and to actively contribute to community development. “Creating a balance between mining operations and environmental conservation is essential to the sector’s growth,” she said.
The town hall meeting also spotlighted urgent safety and compliance concerns. Stakeholders agreed on the need for stricter safety measures aligned with existing mining regulations.
Providing insight into the meeting’s objectives, Dr. Vivian Okono, Director of Mines Environmental Compliance (MEC), explained that the gathering addressed four interrelated priorities: climate change, environmental responsibilities of mining companies, community and social issues, and the effective implementation of the Environmental Protection and Rehabilitation Fund (EPRF).