Osun State Governor, Adegboyega Oyetola, has inaugurated the Osun Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee, MIREMCO in Osogbo, the state capital.
Governor Oyetola swore-in the nine member Committee to tackle the twin problems of illegal mining and environmental degradation.
He also charged the Committee to ensure effective management of mineral resources in the state.
Mineral and Mining Act
According to the governor, the appointment and inauguration of the Committee are in line with the Nigeria Mineral and Mining Act 2007.
He says the Act empowers the Committee to oversee regulation of mining operations in the State; discuss with as well as advise the Minister of Solid Minerals on matters affecting encroachment, trespass, security, social unrest, pollution and environmental degradation of any land on which any mineral is being extracted as it concerns all licence holders within the State.
The Governor, who lamented the challenge of environmental degradation resultant of illegal mining activities, said the decision to set up the Committee was necessary to curb the menace.
He called on members of the Committee to live up to their responsibilities for the betterment of the citizenry and the state in general.
“While we recognise that the exploration and exploitation of solid minerals are on the Exclusive Legislative list of the Nigerian Government, we must also note that we have been faced with the excruciating challenge of environmental degradation arising from lack of environmental and ecological literacy on the part of the local communities coupled with irresponsible and unprofessional mining by both licensed and illegal miners.
“The starting point for remediating this situation is for you to educate and sensitise the people on ecological literacy through town hall and media interventions.
“In achieving these tasks and ultimately setting Osun on the path of effective resource management, we have assembled men and women of character, relevant skills and experience.
“Without any doubt whatsoever, the tasks before you as members of this Committee are onerous and sensitive as they are related to the security and welfare of Osun people, which the 1999 Constitution says are the primary purpose of Government.
“I implore you as experienced professionals and elders, to employ peace management, conflict resolution and diplomatic skills and competencies to manage the thorny issues arising from mineral exploitation.
“The time to rein in the defaulters and ensure this ugly trend is reversed is now. I would also like to take the opportunity to call on the Federal Environmental Agencies such as NESREA to live up to their duties of enforcing environmental standards and compliance in the mining sector,” he explained.
Changing the Narrative
Chairman of the Committee, Prince Omolade Binuyo, while thanking the Governor for the opportunity to serve the State, deplored the adverse effects of illegal mining activities on the State and pledged the Committee’s commitment to changing the narrative in the sector for good.
”We pledge to uphold our Omoluabi ethos and seek support and cooperation of ministries, relevant agencies and departments in the discharge of our duties.
“We are also determined to transform the sector for the betterment of the State and the nation,” he said.
The inauguration ceremony was witnessed by the Deputy Governor, Mr. Benedict Alabi; Former Deputy Governor, Prince Sooko Adeleke Adewoyin; Secretary to the State Government, Prince Wole Oyebamiji; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Charles Akinola; members of the State Executive Council and other top government functionaries.
Confidence Okwuchi
