PLATEAU STATE GOVERNOR SEEKS FEDERAL GOVERNMENT'S INTERVENTION IN RECLAIMING MINING PONDS
Governor Mutfwang made this appeal during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, at his office in Abuja, in a statement published by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor on Thursday morning.
He briefed the Minister on Plateau State's significant contribution to the development of Nigeria's mineral sector but lamented that the state has been left to deal with the devastating environmental impacts of mining, which have turned into dangerous death traps for host communities.
"We are hopeful that by leveraging our partnership with the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, we can secure Federal Government interventions through ecological funds to remediate these hazardous sites.
" Remedying these mining ponds is not only vital for public health but also holds the potential for significant economic benefits. Plateau State plays a crucial role in strengthening the national food basket and has the potential to turn agriculture into a foreign exchange earner. Hence, the reclamation of these sites is essential," the Governor stated.
Governor Mutfwang also advocated for enhanced collaboration between the Federal Government and subnational entities in training Nigerian youths in gem cutting and polishing, which would contribute to the nation's GDP. He urged the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to incorporate gem training into their curriculum to equip Nigerians with this valuable skill.
The Governor expressed appreciation to the Minister for the zeal and innovative approaches he has introduced in managing the mineral sector and reaffirmed Plateau State’s readiness to partner with the Federal Government to develop mutually beneficial business opportunities.
Responding, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, welcomed Governor Mutfwang and his delegation, acknowledging Plateau State's historical significance in Nigeria's mining development.
"We are keen to partner with Plateau State on developmental projects, particularly in elevating the profile of miners and mineral development in Nigeria. There is much to learn from the practical experiences of those who have been involved in mining for years.
" As we move forward with our mineral development policy formulation and execution, Plateau State is pivotal. We are open to collaboration, cooperation, and joint efforts to transform our mineral sector for the benefit of all stakeholders, especially the host communities and subnational entities," the Minister said.
The Governor's entourage included the Managing Director of Plateau State Mineral Development Company, Mr. Matthews Dawap; the Commissioner of Environment, Climate Change, and Mineral Development, Peter Gwom; and the Chief Technical Adviser to the Governor, Manji Wilson, among others.
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