The Federal Mines Officer for Niger State, Henry Bolarinwa, has lamented that in spite of the state’s rich mineral resources, they are not being properly harnessed and regulated.
Bolarinwa stated this during a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police, Niger State Command, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, in his office in Minna..
He highlighted challenges such as illegal mining, unauthorized blasting, and environmental degradation caused by unprofessional mining practices.
The Federal Mines Officer also emphasized the need for collaboration with the police to address the challenges, particularly before the commencement of operations of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in the state.
Bolarinwa further stressed the importance of land reclamation after mining activities, which ensures that mining sites are refilled and restored to their normal landscape for other developments.
CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman in his response acknowledged that illegal mining is a national challenge, leading to complaints of property damage and the creation of criminal zones.
He urged miners to formalize their operations and carry out their work responsibly while suggesting constant public sensitization and enforcement of land reclamation regulations.
Emphasizing that land degradation is unacceptable, he said, we want to assure the ministry of support and collaboration from the Police Command in addressing mining challenges”
