Gov Nasiru Idris Orders Suspension Of Mining Activities In Kebbi , Cites Safety Concerns 

Kebbi state Government has announced the immediate suspension of mining activities in the state until further notice.

A statement made available to Team@orientactualmags.com by Governor Nasiru Idris’ Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Yahaya Sarki on Friday noted that this decision was announced by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Yakubu Bala Tafida during the press conference he presided over in Birni Kebbi.

 The Head of Service , Alhaji Sufyanu Garba Bena, Commissioner of Solid Minerals and Mines Development, Hon. Haliru Aliyu Wasagu, Chairmen of Yauri, Shanga and Ngaski LGAs , Commissioner of Police, Chris Aimiono Wane and heads of other security agencies also attended the press conference.

The SSG noted that the measure taken was a precautionary one aimed at ensuring the safety of both the mining workers and the locals.

Tafida further said the government was not unmindful of the fact that mining has been placed under the exclusive list.

‘The decision to suspend mining activities  was made after a thorough assessment of the current security situation.

This has raised serious concerns about the safety of those involved in mining.

This coupled with the apparent lack of verifiable sign of corporate social responsibilities in the midst of complete lack of revenue generation’ he said.

The SSG said the measure was also taken in the light of heightened security challenges in the communities where there are mining sites in the state.

There are also other concerns like the lack of CSR, total absence of accruable revenue, the ecological tax and development levy, among others.

Tafida also said that a significant number of the miners do not possess the requisite permit from the Federal Ministry of Mines and Solid Minerals and other observable environmental impacts.

‘The Kebbi state Government believes that it is of utmost importance to prioritize the protection and security of its citizens.

Also to guard against converting the mining fields as veritable platforms for the breeding of criminals by unauthorized foreigners and non- indigenes with questionable characters.

This is with attendant consequence of an increase in banditry activities in our security compromised areas in Kebbi South senatorial district’ he said.

Tafida further said the state government was not officially aware of the self-proclaimed mining license holders and artisanal miners who are operating in the state.

The SSG added that the state government seeks to address these concerns through comprehensive evaluation and strict enforcement of the extant regulations.

‘This will seek to promote responsible mining, safeguard the environment, enhance revenue generation and serve as an effective proactive measure.

The state government has invested huge funds in the improvement of the security situation and will not rest on its oars in doing so.

This includes the economic prosperity of the indigenes in the communities where mining activities are taking place’ he said.

The state government is according to him fully committed to resolving all the underlining infractions in order to create a safe and enabling environment that promotes safety, long-term economic prosperity of the communities and to enhance revenue generation.

‘ Consequently, all miners, irrespective of their status are hereby directed to suspend mining activities.

They are to relate with State Ministry of Solid Minerals and Mines Development for authentication and documentation.

Security agents are hereby directed to ensure strict compliance to the suspension order of mining activities until further notice’ he submitted-Team@orientactualmags.com
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