The Kogi State Ministry of Solid Minerals and Natural Resources has announced plans to embark on a series of sensitisation visits to mining sites and companies operating across the state. This initiative, led by the Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Engr. Bashiru Gegu, and coordinated by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, is aimed at enhancing revenue generation, curbing illegal mining activities, and promoting sustainable mining practices.

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    Sensitisation Visits

    The announcement was made by the Commissioner during a management meeting held at the Ministry’s headquarters, where he outlined the objectives of the visits. He emphasised the importance of collaboration between the government and mining operators to ensure that the sector contributes meaningfully to the state’s economic development.

    Objectives of the Sensitisation Visits

    The sensitisation initiative is multifaceted, focusing on:

    1. Data Collection: The Ministry aims to gather comprehensive data on mining companies operating within Kogi State. This will include details on their locations, production capacities, and contributions to the state’s revenue. Such data will enable the government to have a clearer understanding of the mining landscape and identify gaps in regulation and revenue collection.
    2. Revenue Enhancement: By identifying and formalising relationships with mining operators, the Ministry seeks to improve revenue collection mechanisms. This aligns with the state’s broader objective of diversifying its income sources and reducing dependence on federal allocations.
    3. Curbing Illegal Mining: The visits will also serve as a platform to address the issue of illegal mining, which has been a significant challenge in Kogi State. Illegal mining not only deprives the government of revenue but also leads to environmental degradation and exploitative labour practices.
    4. Sensitisation and Awareness: The Ministry intends to educate mining operators on the importance of adhering to legal and environmental standards. This includes complying with licensing requirements, paying appropriate taxes, and implementing sustainable mining practices to minimise environmental impact.

    Addressing Illegal Mining

    Illegal mining remains a critical issue in Kogi State, as it does in many parts of Nigeria. The unregulated activities of artisanal miners and illegal operators have not only caused significant revenue losses but have also led to environmental destruction, particularly in host communities.

    The Commissioner reiterated the state government’s commitment to tackling this menace through a combination of monitoring, enforcement, and collaboration with local communities. “Our goal is to ensure that every operator in the sector is properly registered and compliant with the laws. Illegal mining activities will not be tolerated, as they are detrimental to the state’s development,” Engr. Gegu stated.

    Strengthening Partnerships with Mining Companies

    During the meeting, the Commissioner urged mining companies to cooperate with the Ministry’s team during the visits. He also cautioned them to be vigilant against unauthorised individuals who might pose as government representatives.

    “It is crucial for companies to verify the identity of anyone claiming to represent the Ministry or the government. We are committed to transparency and will ensure that all official communications are clear and properly documented,” he added.

    The Ministry plans to establish a feedback mechanism during the sensitisation visits to address the concerns of mining operators and local communities. This collaborative approach is expected to foster mutual trust and pave the way for sustainable development in the mining sector.

    CAPPA’s Role in Advocacy for Sustainable Mining

    The sensitisation initiative in Kogi State aligns with the broader advocacy efforts of organisations like Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), which have consistently championed transparency, accountability, and sustainability in Nigeria’s mining sector.

    CAPPA has long emphasised the need for state governments to take proactive measures in regulating mining activities, particularly in states like Kogi that are rich in mineral resources. By addressing issues such as illegal mining, revenue leakages, and environmental degradation, state governments can ensure that mining becomes a catalyst for economic growth rather than a source of conflict and environmental harm.

    In a recent statement, a CAPPA representative commended Kogi State’s initiative, highlighting the importance of integrating community participation into the sensitisation process. “For initiatives like this to succeed, the government must involve host communities, ensuring that they benefit from mining activities and have a voice in decisions that affect their environment,” the representative stated.

    Empowering Local Communities

    The Ministry’s visits are expected to include engagements with host communities to address their concerns and educate them about the state’s regulatory framework for mining. This aligns with CAPPA’s advocacy for community-centred governance in the mining sector, which ensures that the voices of those most affected by mining activities are heard and addressed.

    Empowering local communities also helps to curb illegal mining, as many artisanal miners operate without licences due to a lack of awareness or access to formalisation opportunities. By engaging these miners and providing them with the necessary support to transition into legal operations, the state can enhance its revenue base while promoting sustainable practices.

    Unlocking Kogi State’s Mining Potential

    Kogi State is home to a wealth of mineral resources, including limestone, iron ore, coal, and gold. With the right policies and investments, the state has the potential to become a mining hub in Nigeria. However, this requires a coordinated effort between the government, private sector, and civil society organisations.

    The sensitisation visits by the Ministry represent a step in the right direction, signalling the state’s commitment to maximising the benefits of its mineral resources. By addressing challenges such as illegal mining and revenue leakages, Kogi State can position itself as a model for other states seeking to leverage their mineral wealth for sustainable development.

    The Path Forward

    As the Ministry embarks on this initiative, it is imperative to establish clear metrics for success. These include:

    • The number of mining companies registered or formalised during the visits.
    • The amount of revenue generated from improved compliance.
    • The reduction in illegal mining activities.
    • Feedback from host communities on the impact of the sensitisation efforts.

    The success of the sensitisation visits will depend on the Ministry’s ability to foster collaboration among stakeholders, address the concerns of mining operators, and ensure that local communities are active participants in the process.

    By taking these steps, Kogi State has the opportunity to transform its mining sector into a model of sustainability, transparency, and inclusivity—one that benefits all stakeholders and contributes meaningfully to the state’s economic growth.

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