The Ebonyi State Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, Onyia Chidi Emmanuel has called on the Federal government to review the mining laws which is in Exclusive list for only FG to regulate and issue licenses to miners in order to give state governments more access, more powers to regulate the activities of miners in their localities.
He made the disclosure during the ongoing the African Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS) in Abuja on Tuesday.
The Commissioner believes that the current legal framework does not adequately provide for state involvement in the mining sector in the country.
He said “the state governments should be allowed to participate more in mining activities as the current legal framework does not provide for adequate state involvement.
“The States should be allowed to regulate mining activities within their territories to ensure good governance by instilling more effective regulation and monitoring of mining activities.
“There will be increased revenue as states can generate more revenue from mining activities, enhancing their economic development and more mining activities can lead to job opportunities for residents of states.
Hon. Onyia argued that states will invest in infrastructure, such as roads and energy supply to support mining operations affecting positively on grassroots people.
The Commissioner explained that if states are fully captured in the mining sector they can reduce dependence on federal allocations and diversify their economy.
He said “states’ involvement can promote transparency in the mining sector and provide better environmental management by enforcing stricter environmental regulations and enforcement.
He capped it all that States can better address security concerns related to mining activities in the country.
“By allowing states to participate more in the mining sector, Nigeria can unlock the sector’s full potential, promote economic growth, and improve the lives of citizens.”
