Kebbi State Government Debunks Allegations of Supporting Illegal Mining Activities

By Umar Faruk Birnin Kebbl 

The Kebbi State Government has vehemently denied online reports alleging its involvement in illegal mining activities in Libata, Ngaski Local Government Area. Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development and Mining, Hon.  Haliru Muhammad Wasagu, made the denial during a news briefing in Birnin Kebbi, accompanied by Commissioner for Information and Culture, Alhaji Yakubu Ahmad Birnin Kebbi. 

Hon.  Wasagu emphasized that since Governor Nasir Idris' administration began, the government has prioritized sanitizing the mining sector by ensuring licensed companies adhere to strict rules and regulations. "Kebbi has consistently supported the Federal Government's efforts to prevent illegal mining; it's foolish to accuse the state government of supporting such acts," he stated.

The government has prohibited Emirs, District Heads, or individuals from signing consent letters to mining companies, with the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and Mining being the sole regulatory authority to issue permissions. Wasagu explained that under the Minerals and Mining Act, the Federal Government has sole authority to issue mining licenses, while state governments own lands.

In September 2023, the Kauran Gwandu administration suspended all mining activities due to concerns about illegal mining and security issues. This decision was also driven by observations of inadequate corporate social responsibility initiatives, unpaid royalties, and environmental degradation caused by unregulated mining.

Seven mining companies have been approved to operate in the Libata area, with strict protocols in place to ensure compliance. Requirements include registration with the Ministry, obtaining introduction letters, applying for licenses, validating licenses, engaging host communities, and obtaining permits.

Regarding the specific case of Libata, Three Crowns Company was issued a license for 5.4 square kilometers, with a portion allocated to El-Tahdam Exploration Limited, leading to a dispute between the companies. Commissioner Haliru Wasagu clarified that the Kebbi State Ministry had no involvement in this conflict.

The Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Bello Yahaya Geza, provided detailed explanations on the Ministry's operations, regulatory powers, and performance, making it impossible for illegal mining to occur. Commissioner emphasized that Governor Nasir Idris has made significant progress in uplifting the wellbeing of the populace, and false accusations from the opposition won't deter the administration's commitment to excellence.

Nigeria has been struggling with illegal mining, which has led to local conflicts and environmental degradation . The government's efforts to regulate the sector and prevent illegal activities are crucial in addressing these issues.