The Federal Government is set to convene a crucial retreat aimed at addressing grey areas between it and state governments regarding management challenges in the mining industry.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Oladele Alake, during a visit from Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar-Radda, in Abuja.
Dr. Alake revealed that he had initiated discussions on the retreat with the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State.
He emphasized the federal government’s priority on Katsina State in its plans for mining sector development due to its significant mineral deposits.
The Minister urged states to seek federal government approval before making policy pronouncements on mining activities, reiterating that solid minerals fall under the exclusive list.
He also stressed the importance of notifying the federal government if a state notices any irregularities in mining operations.
Dr. Alake announced the inauguration of the Mining Marshals, aimed at curbing illegal mining activities in the state.
He also highlighted the revised guidelines for Community Development Agreements (CDA), which now require a letter of consent from the host community before applying for mining licenses.
The Minister encouraged states to play a more active role in regulating mining operators through the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO), which allows governors to nominate members.
He urged Katsina State to follow other states’ examples by applying for mining licenses as a limited liability company, assuring expedited approval.
Governor Umar-Radda commended the minister’s efforts to reposition the mining sector and expressed Katsina State’s readiness to partner with the federal government to harness its mineral resources.
He also sought federal assistance in addressing insecurity in parts of the state, citing poverty, injustice, and illegal mining as contributing factors.
Additionally, he requested the minister to revoke licenses of operators who fail to develop or commence projects and investigate instances of dubious letters of consent from host communities.