…Alake seeks states involvement in Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee

Oredola Adeola

The Federal Government has cautioned the state governments that solid minerals are under the exclusive legislative list, advising them to obtain approval from the Ministry of Solid Minerals before implementing any policies related to mining activities within their territories.

Mr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals made this known during the Nigerian Governors Forum held in Abuja.

Alake disclosed that the directive was issued to the 32 Governors present at the meeting to ensure proper regulation and coordination in the mining sector.

The Minister of Solid Minerals during the meeting hosted by Governor AbdulRasak Abdulrahman, Chairman of the Forum, stressed that solid minerals fall under the exclusive legislative list.

According to him, states should seek approval from the ministry before making policy decisions on mining activities within their jurisdictions.

He therefore encouraged them to apply for mining licenses to become key stakeholders in the industry, ensuring both revenue generation and environmental preservation.

Alake also emphasized the importance of significant state representation in the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) which he described as a crucial step towards effective management of mining activities.

He said, “I met with the 32 state governors to establish a joint committee to address mining issues, emphasizing the importance of collaborative federalism.

“Ultimately, we agreed to enhance engagement and develop a cooperative strategy to overcome obstacles hindering progress in the mining sector,” Alake said.