Why we introduced issuance of Clearance Letter for miners in Bauchi – Commissioner
By Samuel Luka, Bauchi
Bauchi state Commissioner, Ministry of Natural Resources, Honourable Maiwada Bello has disclosed that the introduction of issuance of clearance letter by the state government through the ministry to miners is aimed at identifying investors in the sector in Bauchi as well as ensuring that they adhere to rules guiding their operations.
The Commissioner who stated this during a sensitization visit to stakeholders in Ningi local government area of Bauchi state, added that by issuing out clearance letter, the state government will know the location of the miners and their level of compliance to laid down instructions guiding mining operations in the state.
According to him, the clearance letter will also give the state government, the opportunity to ensure that miners adhere to environmental protection laws as well as compliance to Community Development Agreement (CDA).
As contained in a press release made available to newsmen by the Information Officer of the ministry, Saleh Umar, the Commissioner and his team were in Ningi to educate Stakeholders on government policies and programs regarding the mining sector in order to mitigate the negative effect of illegal mining and its impact on the State.
He said that the government has put necessary measures in place to streamline the process of formalizing illegal local miners and also assist them engage in Small and Medium Enterprise through registration as cooperative societies.
The Commissioner encouraged the representatives of various mining Operators in Ningi Local Government to ensure payment of royalties and other revenues for the development and maintaining peace and harmony in the State.
He warned that the state government will not take it lightly with any miner found ignoring their corporate responsibilities.
Earlier speaking, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alh. Maijamaa Muhammad Dewu emphasized the importance of synergy between the State, Local Governments and members of the general public.
Alhaji Dewu who noted that no meaningful development can be attained in the absence of peaceful coexistence, said the state government is doing well in terms of provisions of security.
Also, the Bauchi State Chairman, Mineral resources and environmental protection Committee (MIREMCO), Alhaji Bello Inuwa Galoji emphasized the need for environmental protection from been degraded as a result of mining activities.
In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of Ningi Local Government Hon. Nasiru Zakari commended the for educating the mining Stakeholders in his Area, urging them to utilize the knowledge acquired and comply with the rules and regulations governing the mining activities.
On his part, representative of Beijing Global Limited, whose company is yet to commence operations, Mr. Yusha’u Yahaya commended the Commissioner for the visit which he said has helped cleared many misconceptions about the mining sector.
The village Head of Kyata Mal. Sa’ad Jibrin who expressed gratitude to the state government for the enlightenment campaign, called for its sustenance.
The press release said, officials of Ningi LGA,Traditional Leaders, Community Development Associations members, mining Operators, Mining Association of Nigeria were among other Stakeholders present during the meeting.