By: Samson Osuo-Lafia.

Nasarawa State Government said it’s taking drastic steps to promote responsible and sustainable Mining practices in the area.

The State Commissioner of Environment and Natural Resources, Princess Margret Elayo, disclosed this on Friday, during a Media briefing in Lafia, the State Capital.

According to the Commissioner, the State is blessed with abundant Mineral deposits that have contributed meaningfully to the Country’s economy, adding that the State government has since observed increasing environmental challenges linked to unregulated and unsafe mining practices.

“we have observed increasing environmental challenges linked to unregulated and unsafe mining operations, the government recognizes the growing environmental challenges arising from unregulated mining activities including erosion, deforestation, water pollution and the loss of farmlands, we are strengthening collaboration with miners, traditional institutions and host communities to ensure that mining activities are conducted in line with approved environmental standards”.

The Commissioner who stated that her Ministry will soon commence a state-wide environmental inspection and monitoring exercise across all mining sites, said the initiative was not designed to intimidate or punish but to guide operators and ensure compliance with best environmental practices.

She called on miners and community leaders in the State to cooperate with the proposed team of government and contribute to the restoration of degraded lands and the protection of water sources in the State.