Mr. Eluyemi Eluwade, the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Akwa Ibom State, issued a stern warning to miners engaged in illegal mining activities in the state.
Eluwade conveyed this message during an engagement with stakeholders in the mining sector held in Uyo on Tuesday.
Highlighting the seriousness of the issue, Eluwade emphasized that illegal mining would be considered sabotage, and perpetrators would be treated as economic saboteurs to the nation. He stressed that mining activities fall under the Exclusive List, with only the Federal Government authorized to issue licenses for mineral extraction.
“The revenue from the mining of mineral resources finds its way to states as well through the 13 percent derivation principle,” Eluwade explained, underlining the importance of adhering to legal processes in mining operations.
Expressing concern over the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining, Eluwade shared observations from his recent tour of mining sites in the state. He described the environmental impact as alarming, emphasizing the need for collective action to address the issue.
Eluwade urged all mining license holders, whether individuals or companies, to prioritize environmental reclamation as part of their mining activities. He stressed that holding a license also entails the responsibility of reclaiming excavated land once mining operations cease.
The NSCDC’s warning serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to legal frameworks and environmental regulations in mining operations, ensuring sustainable practices that safeguard both the environment and the nation’s resources.
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