The Adamawa State Ministry for Solid Minerals has sought the collaboration of the Nigeria Police Force in its efforts to tackle illegal mining activities across the state.
The Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Hon. Haruna Ibrahim, made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police, CP Dankombo F. Morris, at the Police Headquarters in Yola on Monday.
Ibrahim emphasized the importance of forging a partnership with the police to clamp down on unregistered mining operations, which he described as a growing concern. He said the Ministry is committed to sanitizing the mining sector and ensuring that only licensed operators are allowed to engage in mineral exploration and extraction.
“The world is shifting from hydrocarbon to solid minerals, and Adamawa State is blessed with vast mineral resources. If properly harnessed, these resources can significantly boost the state’s internally generated revenue,” the commissioner stated.
He urged the police to intensify surveillance and monitoring to identify and apprehend illegal miners operating without due registration or authorization.
In his response, CP Dankombo F. Morris appreciated the commissioner’s visit and described the collaboration as timely. He noted that the mandate of the police includes safeguarding lives and property, which extends to ensuring lawful economic activities.
The police commissioner disclosed that many individuals have entered the state to engage in mining without obtaining licenses or liaising with the appropriate state authorities. He lamented that while some miners possess licenses from the Federal Government, they often bypass state regulatory frameworks, leading to disorder in the sector.
“We must work together to restore order and accountability in the mining sector. This synergy is essential for protecting the state’s resources and ensuring sustainable development,” CP Morris stated.
Both parties agreed on the need to strengthen coordination between the Ministry and the Police in order to bring sanity to mining operations in the state.
