Nelson NseAbasi
The Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Chapter of Miners Association of Nigeria(M.A.N), Comrade Iyakise Udofia has praised the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno for his swift response and visit to the site of the gully erosion in Uyo, the state capital.
In a statement made in Uyo, Mr Iyakise said he is delighted that the governor responded quickly to his call to address the issue of illegal mining in the state and the damages it causes to the society.
Chairman of M.A.N in Akwa Ibom State, Mr Iyakise Udofia said "these illegal mining activities have resulted in significant revenue losses to both the federal and state governments.
It could be recalled the Association during a Media briefing with select Journalists in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on Sunday, 30th July, 2023 attributed these losses and environmental degradation to illegal mining activities performed in the State.
On the issue of illegal mining, the Chairman said, "it is with grave concern that we bring to the Governor's notice and the general public the rampant operations of illegal miners in our state. These illegal mining activities have caused serious environmental degradation, leading to irreparable harm to our natural resources. The ecological balance is at stake, and urgent action is needed to address this pressing issue".
"We believe that cooperation between the Miners Association and the government is paramount in addressing these challenges effectively. We are open to dialogue and working together towards finding viable solutions that protect our environment, boost revenue generation, and foster the sustainable development of our State".
Iyakise Udofia also solicited for partnership with the traditional rulers, at the same time calling for adherence to the rule of law, still in a bit to stop illegal mining which results in environmental degradation and damage.
Speaking on steps to address this menace, Iyakise Udofia reiterated that "let it be known that the Miners Association of Nigeria Akwa Ibom Chapter will not condone or protect any form of illegality within our ranks. We stand committed to working in tandem with government authorities to eradicate illegal mining practices and promote responsible and sustainable mining in the state".
He thus appealed to members of the Association and the public to comply to the Mining Act of 2007 and its regulations in all mining operations. "We must ensure that our mining activities are conducted within the confines of the law and with a strong sense of responsibility towards the environment and our community. By upholding the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act of 2007 and it's Regulation of 2011, we can build a sustainable and prosperous mining industry that benefits all of Akwa Ibom State". He said "These laws provide the framework for responsible and sustainable mining practices while safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders, including local communities.
Interestingly, 9 days after the briefing, the governor has since given his attention to curb the menace of illegal mining, this offers hope, Iyakise added. Meanwhile, the Association has appreciated the State Commissioner of Police, Olatoye Durosinmi for maintaining law and order in the mining field, appealing for more security from other agencies especially the Immigration authorities in checking those coming into the country and state to carry out illegal activities.
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