The Federal Government has warned mining operators against the unguided use of explosives at their sites in Zamfara.
This came after the Federal Government lifted the ban on mining exploration and issued new operational procedures to guide mining activities in the state.
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Mr. Abunumah Samuel, Mines Officer and Secretary of the Zamfara State Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO), made this known at a one-day stakeholders’ meeting with Quarry Operators, Mineral Processors and Gold Dealers in Gusau.
Samuel urged interested operators to visit the Abuja office with their applications to secure the necessary licenses.
The Federal Government, in January 2019, banned mining operations in Zamfara at the height of insecurity and illegal mining activities.
According to him, the present administration has now lifted the ban after developing operational procedures requiring mining companies to pay royalties, provide basic social amenities to host communities, and mitigate environmental hazards.
He expressed concern over the indiscriminate circulation of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in the state and noted that the ministry is working with security agencies to ensure compliance.
He added that authorities are collaborating with the Explosive Ordinance Unit of the Nigerian Police Force to determine whether the IEDs are originating from mining activities or other sources.
Operators were urged to ensure strict compliance with laws governing Quarry Operators, Mineral Processors and Gold Dealers.
Samuel further noted that with the lifting of restrictions on mining, the Federal Government had modified relevant laws to check illegal mining and advised operators to adhere strictly to regulations and ensure prompt payment of royalties.
Kasimu Kaura, Zamfara Commissioner for Environment, Mining and Solid Minerals, also raised concerns over the mishandling of explosives by mining operators without proper authorisation and noted that the government is developing mechanisms for proper handling of explosives.
