The Lagos State Government’s Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) has intensified its efforts to curb illegal mining activities, emphasising the enforcement of sustainable mining practices. During a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Lagos State Secretariat, Ikeja, MIREMCO’s chairman, Hon. Sesan Olanrewaju, urged adherence to the Minerals and Mining Act of 2007.
With the theme “Safe Practices in Mining Activities: Towards Environmental Sustainability and Revenue Generation in Lagos,” the event fostered collaboration between MIREMCO, miners, and dredgers to promote environmentally sound mining practices.
Key Resolutions and Discussions:
- Sustainable Practices: Hon. Olanrewaju underscored the importance of mitigating environmental damage caused by mining, such as deforestation, water pollution, and habitat destruction. He advocated for integrating sustainability into mining policies and practices to protect future generations.
- Collaborative Efforts: MIREMCO committed to working with government bodies, industry stakeholders, academia, and civil society to establish clear guidelines and monitoring mechanisms. This collective approach aims to transform the sector into one that balances economic benefits with environmental preservation.
- Zero Tolerance for Illegal Mining: Olanrewaju announced strict measures against illegal miners, emphasising that offenders would face legal repercussions. He reiterated that sustainable mining is a necessity, not an aspiration.
Expert Contributions:
- Mr. Waheed Popoola, Compliance Officer at the Federal Mines Environmental, delivered a presentation on environmental sustainability and community development agreements.
- Mr. Emilio Cardozo, Director of Solid Minerals at the Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, provided guidelines on haulage of solid minerals.
- Mr. O. Adeola from the Lagos State Ministry of Environment highlighted the significance of environmental remediation.
- Mr. James Iranola discussed the environmental impacts of dredging.
The stakeholders resolved to enhance their commitment to sustainable practices, ensuring the mining sector contributes to economic growth without compromising ecological integrity.
