Gombe State Government has reiterated its commitment to developing the minerals, mines, and allied sectors to improve the state’s revenue base and the living standards of mining host communities.
The Commissioner of Energy and Mineral Resources, Sanusi Ahmad Pindiga stated this during the inauguraral meeting of the mining committee established by Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, to chart the way forward for implementing its terms of reference.
He expressed concern about the actions of some miners who operate without obtaining the necessary licenses and of traditional leaders who grant consent letters without proper authorization from relevant local or state authorities.
“Some mining entities have been operating within host communities without executing mandatory Community Development Agreements or Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, while others exploit residents through unfair practices,” he lamented.
The Commissioner, who is also the Chairman of the committee, noted that Gombe State is endowed with over 35 varieties of mineral resources in commercial quantities, particularly industrial minerals such as limestone, gypsum, coal, kaolin, and copper.
He explained that while all solid mineral deposits in Nigeria are on the exclusive list, the Federal Government, through the Mining Cadaster Office, has the authority to grant licenses to deserving investors. However, state governments also play a crucial role by granting community consent for mineral title processing.
“As the chief security officers in their respective states, state governors supervise, monitor, and regulate all mining activities within their jurisdictions.”
Hon. Sanusi Pindiga pointed out that Government welcomes any suggestions or recommendations that could contribute to the development of the mineral and mining sector in Gombe State.
The Chairman reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to partnering with other relevant stakeholders to achieve its goals.
He stated, “Our doors will always be open for consultation and collaboration with other stakeholders to ensure the sustainable development of the minerals, mines, and allied sectors in Gombe State.”
“The governor’s vision is to elevate the standards of the mineral and mining sector in the state to compete favourably at both national and international levels,” he affirmed.
The meeting had in attendance other members of the committee, including the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, representatives from the Ministry of Science and Technology, other relevant MDAs, and security agencies.
Recall that, on August 28, 2024, Governor Inuwa Yahaya issued Executive Order No. 008, halting all illegal mining activities in Gombe State and establishing the Mining Committee to oversee and regulate mining operations within the state.
