The Lagos State Government, through its Office of Mineral Resources, has reaffirmed its dedication to safe mineral resource management.
This commitment emphasizes compliance with operational guidelines for mining activities throughout the state.
On Friday, Engr. Abiola Olowu, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Mineral Resources, met with the Lagos State Dredgers’ and Miners’ Association.
The meeting, held at T-Block, The Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, aimed to discuss operational guidelines for a safer environment for Lagosians.
During the meeting, Engr. Olowu, representing Governor Sanwo-Olu, presented awards to mining and dredging sites that achieved 100% compliance.
This initiative highlights the administration’s commitment to promoting sustainable mineral resource management practices.
Engr. Olowu emphasized the economic importance of mineral resources.
He stressed the necessity of environmentally sustainable and community-friendly extraction practices to benefit all stakeholders involved.
He outlined key operational guidelines designed to ensure safety and environmental sustainability in haulage operations.
These guidelines include mandatory tarpaulin covers on loaded trucks and the prohibition of carrying wet sand.
Further guidelines prohibit the abandonment of trucks on roads and require proper maintenance of access roads to mining sites.
Additionally, responsible management of oil discharges from machinery is essential for environmental protection.
Engr. Olowu stated, “We recognize the significant role mineral resources play in Lagos State’s economy.”
He underlined the need to give community welfare and environmental sustainability first priority when extraction is underway. He underlined the importance of following these principles for long-term gains.
Olowu warned that violators of the stipulated guidelines would face arrest and prosecution.
This measure aims to enforce compliance and uphold the integrity of the mining sector in Lagos State.
Engr. Abiola Kosegbe, representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, echoed the need for adherence to legal and environmental best practices.
Similarly, Geologist Emilio Cardozo, the Director of the Solid Mineral Department, cautioned that non-compliance would result in severe sanctions.
Consequently, he emphasized the importance of adhering to regulations to avoid penalties.
The Lagos State Government remains committed to ensuring responsible and sustainable mineral resource management, as reported on their official Facebook page.