Bauchi State Govt sensitizes Toro communities on dangers of illegal mining.
By Abdullahi Alhaji
The Bauchi State Ministry of Natural Resources, in collaboration with BAHAS Consultant, has organized a one-day sensitization workshop on the dangers of illegal mining and its associated security challenges in Toro Local Government Area.
Declaring the workshop open, the State Commissioner for Natural Resources, Alhaji Muhammad Maiwada Bello, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Hamisu Mohammed Dariya, stressed the need for stakeholders to work collectively to address illegal mining and its economic, environmental and security implications.
Also speaking on behalf of the Chairman of Toro Local Government, Pharmacist Ibrahim Dembo, the LG Head of Administration, Kabir Mahmood Abdullahi, said the council would continue to support initiatives aimed at protecting communities and ensuring the responsible exploitation of mineral resources.
In their separate remarks, community leaders at the training, expressed appreciation to the Bauchi State Government and the organizers for taking the sensitization programme to Toro, describing the initiative as timely and relevant to communities affected by mining activities.
They called for sustained awareness campaigns and stronger collaboration among government agencies, security organizations, mining operators and host communities to tackle illegal mining and its associated security and environmental challenges.
The workshop brought together government officials, traditional and community leaders, mining stakeholders and other relevant groups to deliberate on measures to curb illegal mining and promote the sustainable management of mineral resources.
The first, delivered by Bello Inuwa Galoji, focused on “Community Development Agreement: A Framework for Sustainable Mining and Host Community Relations.”
The second paper, presented by Engr. Muhammad Nasir, examined Nigerian Mining Laws, Regulations and Best Practices for Sustainable Minerals Management, while the third was delivered by the Mining Marshal, North-East, Commandant Babagana Ali Alkali, on “Understanding Illegal Mining in Nigeria: Obligations, Complaints and Accountability.”
The presentations provided participants with insights into the legal framework governing mining activities, the responsibilities of mining operators and host communities, as well as mechanisms for reporting illegal mining activities.
