The Gombe State Government has announced a comprehensive ban on illegal mining activities within the state, warning that individuals, groups, or organizations found violating this directive will face prosecution.
This significant development follows the recent signing and issuance of Executive Order No. 8 of 2024 by the State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, on Thursday.
The order, which takes effect immediately, is designed to enhance the regulation and monitoring of mining activities throughout Gombe State, with the aim of protecting host communities from exploitation and safeguarding the environment.
The Executive Order seeks to address a range of issues associated with mining operations, including environmental degradation, security threats, and the exploitation of host communities.
It sets forth key measures to mitigate these challenges and ensure that mining activities are conducted responsibly and legally.
One of the central components of the Executive Order is the creation of the Mining Activities Monitoring Committee (MAMC).
This committee will be chaired by the Commissioner of Energy and Mineral Resources and will include representatives from various state ministries, security agencies, and the Gombe Geographic Information Services (GOGIS).
The MAMC is tasked with overseeing all mining operations in the state, ensuring that they comply with state laws and regulations.
Additionally, the committee will collaborate with federal agencies to minimize the environmental impact of mining activities.
A key provision of the Executive Order is the requirement for all mining companies to submit Community Consents and Community Development Agreements to the state’s Ministry of Justice through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.
These agreements must be vetted and approved before any mining operations can begin.
This measure is intended to ensure that the interests of host communities are taken into account and that all agreements are legally binding and enforceable.
Moreover, the Executive Order mandates that all personnel employed by mining entities arriving in Gombe State undergo screening by the MAMC.
This screening process will verify their citizenship, check for relevant permits, and confirm the legal status of their operations.
This step is aimed at curbing the influx of undocumented foreigners and ensuring that only authorized individuals are involved in mining activities.
