Illegal Mining is a huge issue in Nigeria and now Anambra State has issued a stern warning to miners operating without proper documentation, classifying such activities as illegal mining and liable to prosecution under the Environmental Protection Law. Barrister Anthony Ifeanya, the Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, delivered this message during the ministry’s 2024 stocktaking meeting.
The Commissioner outlined the essential documents required for legal mining operations, including lease agreements, Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), Community Development Agreements, evidence of tax compliance, and detailed remedial plans. He made it clear that miners who fail to meet these requirements will face legal consequences, including arrest and prosecution.
Increased Oversight for 2025
Commissioner Ifeanya also announced the ministry’s plan to introduce rigorous monitoring and oversight of activities in the petroleum and mining sectors starting in 2025. The initiative aims to enforce compliance with state and federal regulations, ensuring that operators adhere to established standards.
The Commissioner emphasised the need for strict adherence to environmental protection measures. Speaking as a member of the Anambra State Mining Reform Committee, he urged miners to prioritise environmental stewardship, warning that environmental degradation today could have severe consequences for future generations.
“The choices we make today in exploiting natural resources must not compromise the ability of future generations to live in a safe and sustainable environment,” Ifeanya stated. He further assured stakeholders that the ministry remains committed to balancing resource exploitation with environmental conservation.
Focus on Environmental Protection
The ministry’s focus on environmental protection took centre stage during the stocktaking meeting. Barrister Ifeanya stressed the importance of miners adhering to environmental standards and called for the integration of sustainable practices in mining operations.
The Commissioner highlighted the role of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and Community Development Agreements (CDAs) as critical components of responsible mining. “These documents are not just bureaucratic hurdles but essential tools for safeguarding the environment and ensuring that host communities benefit from mining activities,” he said.
He also noted the state’s intention to penalise miners who disregard these standards. Such penalties aim to deter illegal mining and protect Anambra’s natural ecosystems from further harm.
Ministry Staff Held to High Standards
In addition to addressing Illegal mining issues, the stocktaking meeting also served as an opportunity to remind ministry staff of their responsibilities. Barrister Nkiru Nwankwor, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, urged employees to adhere strictly to the state civil service rules.
She referenced the 2021 edition of the civil service rulebook, which outlines the consequences of misconduct, including tardiness and insubordination. “Disrespect towards authority and failure to perform duties promptly will not be tolerated,” Nwankwor warned. She encouraged staff to remain disciplined and professional in their roles, emphasising that their conduct reflects on the ministry’s overall performance.
Achievements Highlighted in 2024 Stocktaking
The stocktaking meeting also featured detailed presentations from department heads, showcasing the ministry’s achievements in 2024. These reports highlighted progress made in improving regulatory frameworks, boosting compliance, and engaging stakeholders within the petroleum and mining sectors.
Commissioner Ifeanya praised the efforts of ministry staff and stakeholders, attributing the year’s successes to their dedication and hard work. However, he stressed the need for continued improvement in 2025, especially in the areas of monitoring and enforcement.
The Path Forward
As Anambra State prepares to roll out its enhanced oversight measures in 2025, the government remains resolute in its commitment to reforming the mining and petroleum sectors. These reforms aim to address illegal activities, protect the environment, and ensure that mining contributes positively to the state’s socio-economic development.
By insisting on full compliance with documentation requirements and enforcing environmental protection laws, the ministry seeks to establish a more sustainable and transparent framework for resource management in order to eliminate the threat of illegal mining. With these measures in place, Anambra State is positioning itself as a leader in responsible resource exploitation and environmental stewardship.
The meeting concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to work collaboratively in transforming Anambra’s natural resource sector into a model of efficiency, sustainability, and equity.
