Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has urged for broader state participation in the solid minerals sector to unlock its full economic potential and drive national diversification efforts. He also condemned the increasing rate of illegal mining and its adverse impact on the economy.
During a visit by members of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development to the Enugu Government House, Governor Mbah emphasized the urgent need for constitutional reforms and legislative support that would enable states to have more influence over solid mineral exploration and control within their territories.
“This Committee is tasked with a mission of national importance,” Governor Mbah noted. “Solid minerals represent an untapped economic goldmine. As we push for economic diversification in Nigeria, this sector must become a pillar in our development agenda.”
He advocated for stronger inclusion of state governments in both the exploration and exploitation of solid mineral resources, stressing that such synergy between national and sub-national governments is essential for sustainable growth. According to him, illegal mining operations have continued to exploit these resources with minimal benefits to the country.
“Many of these mineral assets remain dormant or are being mismanaged by unauthorized individuals. We believe that your committee can drive meaningful change by prioritizing state inclusion,” the governor said.
Legislative Conflicts Hindering Mining Sector Efficiency
Governor Mbah also drew attention to legal ambiguities causing conflicts in the sector. He cited the clash between the Nigerian Inland Waterways Act and the Mining Act, especially over the control of sand mining along coastal zones.
“We hope your committee will address these jurisdictional overlaps that often slow down legitimate mining activities,” he added.
Call for Geospatial Data to Drive Investment
In an effort to position Enugu as a viable investment hub for mining, Governor Mbah called for updated and accurate geospatial and geological data. He argued that the lack of reliable data was one of the key reasons investors shy away from the sector.
“Current data are either obsolete or insufficient. For meaningful investment to occur, there must be clarity in responsibilities and tangible returns on investment,” Mbah explained. “With accurate geospatial frameworks, global companies will see reasons to invest in Nigeria’s mineral sector.”
He pledged full cooperation from the Enugu State Government with the National Assembly and the Federal Government in overhauling the mining industry.
Senate Committee Acknowledges Enugu’s Rich Mineral Reserves
In his earlier remarks, Senator Ekong Sampson, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development, acknowledged Enugu’s pivotal position in Nigeria’s mineral map. He highlighted the abundance of valuable mineral deposits across the state, which include:
- Coal deposits in Udi
- Limestone in Nkanu and Oji River
- Iron ore in Nsukka and Ogbete
- Silica and laterite across various parts of the state
“The Senate is committed to fostering legal, regulatory, and policy frameworks that will unlock the mining sector. Our collaboration with Enugu will strengthen legislative processes and economic outcomes,” Sampson assured.
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