The Enugu State Government has set a deadline of December for mineral title holders to commence coal mining operations in the state. This decision was made during a meeting between the state’s Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee and mineral title holders. The goal is to restore Enugu State’s prominence as a leading coal mining state and stimulate economic growth in the sector.
A communiqué issued at the end of the meeting said the parties agreed to begin further engagement to identify additional challenges in the sector and recommend solutions which would help foster more inclusive and effective mining in the state.
It said this was part of their efforts to eradicate mineral title inactiveness and stimulate economic growth in the sector.
“The title holders are urged to commence operations promptly, with the committee pledging to provide support and address any challenges that may arise to facilitate this process,” the communiqué reads in part.
In his remarks at the end of the meeting, Mr Okoro, an engineer, commended the state governor, Peter Mbah, and the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, for giving them the opportunity to make their impact in the sector
The committee will engage with title holders to identify challenges and recommend solutions, and will demand directories of all mineral titles in the state to ensure transparency and accountability. Title holders are urged to commence operations promptly, with the committee pledging support and assistance.
Enugu State is known for its rich coal deposits, but mining operations stopped after the discovery of crude oil in the 1950s. The Nigerian Coal Corporation (NCC) was created to exploit the coal resources, but operations were abandoned due to the shift in focus to oil and the outbreak of the civil war. Private firms and individuals have since resumed mining operations in the state.
The committee chairperson, Samuel Okoro, commended the state governor and the Minister of Solid Minerals Development for their support and assured that the committee would ensure compliance with regulations and standards. He urged title holders to collaborate with the committee to achieve maximum results.
