- He highlighted the significance of sensitizing Southern Kaduna due to its status as an emerging mining zone
The Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development conducted a community sensitization event in Southern Kaduna to raise awareness among locals and miners about the risks associated with illegal mining.
The Town Hall Meeting, organized by the North-West office of the Ministry of Solid Minerals, took place in Kafanchan, Jamaa Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
During the gathering, Zonal Mines Coordinator Kutman Hosea-Ali emphasized the ministry’s dedication to fostering collaboration and understanding among stakeholders to create a sustainable environment for mining activities in the state.
He highlighted the significance of sensitizing Southern Kaduna due to its status as an emerging mining zone.
He identified issues of consent, community development agreement, surface rent and environmental impact assessment as major sources of conflict between host communities and mining companies.
Ali urged mining companies to ensure they obtained the necessary mining licences and permits before mobilising people to the site.
He also enjoined artisanal miners to form a small-scale cooperative licence, to operate legally to enhance their activities.
“We are here on behalf of the minister who directed that a meeting of this nature should be held in Kaduna and Kafanchan in particular.
“This is because Southern Kaduna is coming up as an active mining zone; it’s active in the sense that lithium, which is becoming a hot cake globally, is found predominantly here.
“When they give you a mining license, before you do anything go and identify the owners of the land, show your license covers and explain to them all that is needed for proper understanding before proceeding to start mining,” he said.
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