Nasarawa State Assembly directs compilation of mining sites amid concerns of illegal activity

The Nasarawa State House of Assembly Committee on Environment has directed the State Ministry of Environment to compile and provide a list of all mining sites in the state.

This directive was issued by the Chairman of the committee, Mohammed Omadefu, during a meeting with the management of the Ministry and the State Waste Management Board on Monday in Lafia, focusing on their 2024 budget performance.

Omadefu emphasized the importance of identifying all mining sites due to reports of alleged illegal mining activities in the state.

He stated that having this information would help the committee address illegal mining and promote peace within the state. He also assured the ministry of the committee’s full support.

Additionally, Omadefu urged the Waste Management Board to ensure the regular evacuation of refuse across the state to maintain a clean environment and promote public health.

He highlighted that maintaining environmental cleanliness is crucial for the health and wealth of the state, reiterating the adage, “A healthy nation is a wealthy nation.”

“We invited you to review your board’s 2024 budget performance for the first quarter. We will continue to support and collaborate with you to elevate the board’s operations,” Omadefu stated.

Christopher Abari, the Secretary of the State Waste Management Board, expressed gratitude to the committee and the state government for their support.

He assured that the board is committed to maintaining cleanliness across the state through regular refuse evacuation.

“We are doing our best to keep the environment clean throughout the state. By God’s grace, we will ensure constant evacuation of refuse,” Abari said.

The Commissioner of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Mr. Kwanta Yakubu, reported on the ministry’s progress during the meeting. He highlighted the launch of the Green Initiative Programme, which has led to the planting of over 50,000 trees across the state.

This initiative aims to combat deforestation and enhance biodiversity, preserving natural habitats for the future.

Yakubu thanked the committee and Governor Abdullahi Sule for their support, noting that the ministry has made significant strides in implementing policies that promote sustainable development and environmental protection.