The Edo State Government has called on mineral and mining host communities in the state to collaborate closely with the government when granting mining consent to miners for the initiation of mining documentation.
The Commissioner for Mining and Energy in Edo State, Hon. Enaholo Ojeifoh, conveyed this message in Benin City during a solid minerals’ community stakeholders’ meeting themed “Fostering the Development of Mineral and Mining Host Communities,” organized by the ministry.
Hon. Enaholo emphasized that mining operations, along with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, will be systematically regulated. He stressed the importance of communities understanding the dynamics of exploiting solid mineral deposits and businesses within their areas. This understanding will enable them to engage effectively with miners.
“It is crucial for the communities to comprehend the potential of their resources to maximize benefits. In the realm of mining business, the communities hold a strategic position. Without your consent, the Federal Ministry will not issue licenses to miners. We, as the government, will enlighten you on the real value of what you possess. Often, what they give you is not equivalent to what they extract from your land. Any individual conducting a borrow pit in your community is causing harm to your land,” and it is imperative to ensure that value is extracted from these activities for the overall development of the community.
The commissioner stated that indigenous people from the host communities would receive training in solid mineral business acumen, empowering them to capitalize on the resources bestowed upon them by nature.
Hon. Enaholo also announced the activation of the mineral resources and environmental management committee, along with the upcoming launch of the Edo State Solid Mineral Weekly Market Report.
The ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Engr. Ferguson Enabulele highlighted the necessity for communities to collaborate with the government when granting consent letters to miners. Engr. Enabulele, represented by Stacy Osifo, the Director of Oil and Gas Operations at the Ministry, emphasised that the government aims to safeguard the rights of the host community while ensuring the preservation of the existing peace and mutual benefits for both companies and communities.
Representing the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel, Engr. Ramos Naku, the Zonal Mines Officer, emphasised the significance of community consent for miners to obtain licenses. He explained that mining operations can have destructive consequences; therefore, communities need to fully comprehend the implications of their consent.
The Nigeria Civil Defense Corp (NCDC) representative stated that their core mandate involves protecting and surveilling all critical federal government assets, including mining sites, across the country. He explained that all solid mineral deposits in Nigeria belong to the Federal government but are located in the states.
The representative of the Nigerian Army mentioned that their primary concern is to collaborate with other security agencies to safeguard lives and property and maintain peace, offering assistance whenever required.
The Directorate of State Security Service (DSS) affirmed its duty to ensure that explosive materials possessed by solid mineral companies do not fall into the wrong hands.
During an interactive session, community members commended the Edo State Government for engaging with them and addressing mining operations in their areas to promote development. They also requested the commissioner to visit mining sites in their communities for firsthand assessments of mining operations.
