Kwara to partner with investors on mining activities to boost economy
The Kwara State Government, through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has reiterated its commitment to promote mining activities in the state.
This is as the state government assured of its readiness to partner with both local and international mining investors to ensure environmental Safety Compliance and Security at mining sites.
Dr Alabi Afeez Abolore, the State Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, while delivering a keynote address on Wednesday at the strategic sensitization Programme for Artisinal and Small Scale miners on safer mining activities, maintained that the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration is firmly committed to establishing a robust collaboration with relevant Stakeholders, towards a guaranteed safety, for existing and prospective investors in Kwara State.
“Kwara State has been identified as one of the leading solid minerals producing states in the country, with abundant minerals. The State Government is on the verge of obtaining licences of about five (5) special purpose vehicles to further enhance seamless investment opportunities in mining operations, thereby increasing internally generating revenue potentials for the state.” He added
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Earlier, the Executive Secretary of Solid Minerals Development Fund, Hajia Fatima Shinkafi, who was represented by Dr Martina Ananaba mentioned the fact that artisinal and small-scale mining community plays essential roles in both our local and national economies, thereby providing a livelihood for thousands of families in Kwara State and environs, adding that the programme is structured to provide practical insight into safety protocols and best practices, for sustainable mining, with the goal, significantly reducing risks and improving overall safety standards, working conditions and promote sustainable mining practices.
Shinkafi, who acknowledged the contributions and supports of the state government, the state chapter of the miners association, and other stakeholders in artisinal and small-scale mining business, in the State, noted that the robust collaboration is a testament to the shared dedication which would translate to the betterment of artisinal mining practises
In his remarks, the Federal Mines Officer, Engr. Lamidi Maruf highlighted the simple and effective measures to enhance safer mining practices, which include personal protective equipment, proper ventilation, safe blasting and excavation techniques, a culture of safety and responsibility, Regular Risk Assessment and Safety Audits among others.
Also in her comments, the representative of Women mining in Kwara State, Hajia Maryam Garba appreciated the Solid Minerals Development Fund for engaging women miners and sought government support, to aid the smooth running of mining activities in the state.
