In a bold move to tackle the growing issue of illegal mining, Oyo State Government has established a dedicated task force to monitor and halt unauthorized mining activities across all 33 Local Government Areas.
The Director General (DG) of Oyo State Mineral Development Agency, Mr. Abiodun Oni, announced this decision after a stakeholder meeting today in Ibadan.
He emphasizing the government’s commitment to preserving the state’s natural resources, protecting the environment, and ensuring sustainable economic development.
Mr Abiodun Oni stated that Illegal mining has become a significant problem in many parts of Nigeria, including Oyo State, depleting valuable mineral resources and causing severe environmental degradation, including deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution.
These unregulated activities also pose serious safety risks to miners and local communities, often lacking proper equipment and safety measures.
He said the primary mandate of this task force is to identify, monitor, and halt illegal mining activities throughout the state, aligning with the governor’s broader agenda of fostering economic growth while ensuring the protection and sustainable use of the state’s natural resources.
The DG stated further that the task force comprises members from various state agencies, including the Ministry of Environment, the Mineral Development Agency, the State Security Service, and the Nigeria Police Force.
This multi-agency approach is designed to leverage the expertise and resources of different sectors, ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated effort to tackle illegal mining.
He maintains that one of the task force’s first actions will be to conduct a thorough assessment of mining activities across the state, identifying hotspots of illegal mining and understanding the scope and impact of these activities.
The task force will also work to raise awareness among local communities about the dangers and legal consequences of illegal mining, educating the public to garner community support and cooperation in curbing these activities.
Mr Abiodun Oni emphasis that, the task force will employ strict measures to enforce mining laws, it will also prioritize dialogue and collaboration with local communities. The government’s approach is not merely punitive but also supportive, aimed at creating a balanced and sustainable mining sector.
This dual strategy is expected to yield long-term benefits, ensuring that mineral resources contribute to the state’s development without compromising the environment or public safety.
He also said through enforcement, education, and the provision of alternative livelihoods, the government is taking a holistic approach to ensure the sustainable use of its mineral resources, ultimately benefiting both the environment and the people of Oyo State.
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