Abuja: The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has issued a warning against illegal mining activities and unsafe practices within the territory, emphasizing that such actions endanger lives, harm the environment, and undermine lawful operations. This announcement was made by Mrs. Nancy Nathan, the Acting Head of Service of the FCTA, during the opening of a stakeholders’ sensitization meeting on the Standard Operational Procedures (SOP) for mining activities in the FCT.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the meeting was organized by the Department of Solid Minerals and Allied Matters (DSMAM) of the FCTA. Mrs. Nathan, represented by her Special Assistant on Special Duties, Mr. Samaila Hamaila, highlighted the recent approval of the FCT Solid Minerals Taskforce by the DSMAM to enforce compliance with lawful mining operations. She emphasized that sustainable mining is a shared responsibility among all stakeholders, crucial for repositioning the sector to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Mrs. Nathan underscored the importance of adherence to established rules, proper site management, and prioritizing safety and community welfare over short-term profit. The engagement was described as an essential platform for stakeholders, including miners and quarry operators, to align their operations with best practices and environmental standards.
The head of service acknowledged existing challenges in the sector and assured stakeholders of ongoing collaboration with relevant bodies to address these issues. She mentioned efforts with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, the Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office (MCO), and other stakeholders to create an environment conducive for genuine miners.
The sensitization program was highlighted as a collective effort to ensure responsible, lawful, and sustainable mining and quarrying activities in the FCT. Mrs. Chinyelu Obrike, Director of the DSMAM, emphasized the potential of the solid minerals and quarrying industries in driving economic diversification, job creation, and infrastructure development. She stressed that these benefits can only be realized through safe, lawful, and environmentally respectful operations.
Mr. Timothy Shemang, Head of Quarry Mines and Economic Geology Division of the DSMAM, discussed the department’s role in ensuring that mining and quarry activities align with the FCT Master Plan and Act. He mentioned the SOP provisions, including on-the-spot verification of quarries and mines, monitoring of sites, issuance of clearance permits, and collection of annual surface rent based on mining categories. These measures aim to maintain compliance and foster a thriving and responsible mining sector.