Kano State Government has warned mining companies operating in the state against abandoning mining sites without carrying out mandatory environmental reclamation to prevent damage to the environment and surrounding communities.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Mineral Resources, Tijjani Muhammad Sharif, issued the warning on Wednesday while presiding over the ministry’s monthly Executive Management Meeting, the Director of Public Enlightenment at the ministry, Adamu Ibrahim Dabo, disclosed in a statement.
According to the statement, the meeting reviewed the activities, achievements and challenges of various departments, as well as strategies for improving the ministry’s performance.
Sharif expressed concern over the failure of some mining operators to comply with established environmental and mining regulations, stressing that reclaiming mined-out areas was essential to protecting human lives, vegetation, wildlife and the environment.
He said the ministry would sustain enforcement of relevant provisions of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, its regulations and applicable Kano State mining policies.
The Permanent Secretary warned that mining companies that failed to comply with approved environmental reclamation requirements would face legal consequences.
He urged operators to adhere strictly to responsible mining practices and ensure that affected sites were properly restored before abandoning their operations.
Sharif commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for his continued support to the ministry, reaffirming its commitment to working with mining companies, investors and other stakeholders to promote responsible mining, environmental protection and sustainable economic development in the state.
He also praised the ministry’s directors and staff for their dedication and commitment to implementing the state’s mining policies.
