The Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning to miners violating safety operation guidelines, pledging to arrest and prosecute offenders. This was disclosed by Abiola Olowu, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Mineral Resources, during a meeting with the Lagos State Dredgers’ and Miners’ Association held in Alausa, Ikeja, on Friday.
In a statement released by Adetola Idowu, Deputy Director of the Public Affairs Unit in the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Olowu emphasised the administration’s commitment to environmentally sustainable and safe mineral resource management.
“We recognise the significant role mineral resources play in Lagos State’s economy. However, it is our responsibility to ensure their extraction and utilisation prioritise environmental sustainability and the well-being of our communities. Violators to these guidelines will be arrested and prosecuted,” Olowu stated.
The government highlighted operational guidelines aimed at enhancing safety and sustainability in haulage operations, including, mandatory use of tarpaulin covers on loaded haulage trucks, a ban on transporting wet sand, ensuring all loads are properly covered before trucks leave sites, avoidance of overloading haulage trucks, and displaying operational rules and regulations at truck garages.
Olowu noted that these measures reflect the administration’s dedication to fostering responsible practices in the state’s mining and haulage sectors.
Abiola Kosegbe, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, represented by Mrs. Olabisi Akinpelu, Director of Admin and Human Resources, stressed the importance of adhering to legal and environmental best practices. She urged miners and haulers to align with these standards to protect both the environment and the communities affected by mining activities.
