The Petroleum Environmental Solid Minerals Degradation Awareness Association, has vowed to intensify its fight against illegal mining and environmental degradation in Kwara State.
State Commissioner of the association, Abdulganiyu Aleshinloye made this known at the Standard Operating Procedure Workshop for Taskforce Officers today in Ilorin.
He warned that illegal mining threatens public health, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Buge, represented by Mrs. Aliu Aminat, pledged the ministry’s full support, to the association and calling for stronger cooperation among stakeholders.
Also speaking the Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Hon. Abosede Buraimoh, represented by Director of Solid Minerals Mr. Kunle Adimula, said traditional rulers will be empowered to profile mining investors in their domains in line with the law, while new legislation will require companies to reclaim degraded land for farming.
In a paper presentation, environmental journalist and Sobi FM Senior News Editor Dare Akogun, urged taskforce officers to monitor, report, and sensitise communities against harmful practices, stressing that public awareness is key to stopping degradation.
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