The Anambra State Government has clarified that mining activities in the state have not been banned but are temporarily suspended. This directive was issued by Governor Chukwuma Soludo to allow the Anambra State Mining Reform Committee to engage with miners and implement global best practices through the relevant ministries.
This clarification was made by Professor Charles Ofoegbu, Chairman of the Anambra State Mining Reform Committee, during a one-day interface with state miners held at the SSG’s Conference Hall, Government House, Awka. The event saw attendance from various mining sector units and members of the state reform committee.
Professor Ofoegbu, who is also the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company Limited (ASSMDCL), stated that the purpose of the interface was to standardize mining activities across the state, ensuring compliance with the law and global best practices.
Speaking through Retired Air Vice Marshal Ben Chiobi, Special Adviser to Governor Soludo on Security and committee member, Professor Ofoegbu announced a revalidation exercise for all state miners. This exercise, to be conducted by the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, aims to collect comprehensive data and issue clearance certificates to legally authorized miners.
Professor Ofoegbu addressed the concerns of miners whose equipment had been seized by the government taskforce, advising them to write to the Special Adviser on Security, detailing the seized items and the circumstances. He also assured miners who had deposited money for bidding but were unsuccessful that they could request refunds from the Anambra State Internal Revenue Service (AIRS).
Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Barrister Anthoney Ifeanya, emphasized that the government is not targeting any individuals but is seeking to establish a unified mining system. He warned against illegal mining, which deprives the state of revenue, and stated that a template outlining requirements for mining activities would be provided. Those meeting the requirements will receive clearance certificates to resume operations.
Engineer Felix Odimegwu, Commissioner for Environment, highlighted the severe environmental threats faced by Anambra State, including over 1,000 active erosion sites. He attributed the environmental degradation to years of negligence and improper mining practices, urging miners to adhere to sustainable practices to protect future generations.
Representatives from various mining associations, including Mr. Uche Okafor, Chairman of the River Sand Miners Association, Chief Lawrence, Chairman of Odene Aguleri Sand Miners, and Mrs. Chinasa Okafor, a Borrow Pit Miner from Ogbunike and Umunya, pledged to comply with the new regulations and called for the immediate lifting of the suspension and periodic inspections of their sites.
The interface concluded with a question-and-answer session, allowing miners to address their concerns directly with the committee.
