Our reporter
The Edo State Government has initiated efforts to restart gold mining operations in Dagbala, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, following a high-level meeting convened by the Ministry of Mining on Tuesday, 4 January 2025.
The meeting, led by the Honourable Commissioner for Mining, Hon. Andrew Ijegbai, brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from mining companies, farmers, artisans, and the Vigilante Security Network in Dagbala. Also in attendance were government officials such as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Finance, Investment and Revenue, Hon. Kizito Okpebholo, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mining, Mrs. Ese Martina Omoruyi, the Director of Mining, Mr. Ihianle Omoruyi, and the Director of Oil and Gas, Mrs. Stacy Osifo.
Discussions focused on challenges hindering mining activities, including the absence of some miners from the meeting. The Honourable Commissioner expressed concern over their non-compliance and ordered a temporary suspension of their operations. The Permanent Secretary reinforced this stance, emphasising the significance of the gathering as the first official engagement under the new administration.
The Vice Chairman of the Akoko-Edo Miners Association attributed the absence of some miners to communication lapses, suggesting that future invitations be sent via official letters rather than relying on WhatsApp messages. He also raised concerns over inadequate mining equipment, water shortages, and reported arrests of miners by the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). However, the Permanent Secretary clarified that the Ministry of Mining, not the NSCDC, has the primary authority over mining-related matters in the state.
In response to these challenges, the Honourable Commissioner assured stakeholders that efforts would be made to improve access to mining equipment. However, he stressed that miners must demonstrate their commitment to developing the industry.
A key highlight of the meeting was the clarification by the Director of Mining on the distinction between exploration and mining licences. He reiterated that holding an exploration licence does not grant automatic mining rights, urging miners to ensure proper licensing and compliance.
The Permanent Secretary expressed dissatisfaction over the slow pace of mining activities since operations resumed, noting the resulting revenue losses for the state. She proposed a cluster system to regulate and organise mining activities, ensuring legal and efficient operations.
At the end of the meeting, several resolutions were adopted:
Gold mining operations are set to resume the following week, farmers and artisan miners will be profiled and incorporated to work under licensed mining firms, Mining companies, Makana Makana Climax Mining Ltd and Hay Bravo are to attend a follow-up meeting the following Monday, with their operations suspended until further notice, a separate meeting will be held with the Council of Elders of Dagbala to address communal disputes and ensure smooth mining operations without fear of harassment or arrests.
The meeting concluded with a brief session between the Ministry of Mining and licensed miners to discuss regulatory compliance and operational guidelines.
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