The Nasarawa State Government says mining companies operating in the state must strictly comply with their Community Development Agreements (CDAs) in line with international best practices, to foster sustainable development in host communities.
Princess Margaret Elayo, the Commissioner for Environment, stated this on Monday during a ministerial media briefing in Lafia.
Elayo said that adherence to CDAs by mining firms would not only accelerate community development but also promote peace and stability across Nasarawa State.
She explained that officials of the ministry had intensified monitoring visits to mining sites to ensure compliance with environmental standards and agreed obligations.
“We have been going out to mining sites to assess activities and supervise environmental practices to ensure sustainability, in line with the vision of His Excellency,” she said.
According to her, the administration of Gov. Abdullahi Sule is committed to environmental sustainability and responsible mining practices.
She clarified that the inspections were not intended to witch-hunt operators but to ensure that mining activities were conducted responsibly and for the overall development of the state.
The commissioner added that the government would ensure that mining firms provide safe and conducive working conditions for employees as well as a supportive environment for host communities.
Elayo also urged traditional and community leaders to involve the ministry when negotiating CDAs with mining companies to ensure proper documentation and enforcement.
She further reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to sanitation and environmental cleanliness across the state.
Tanko noted that government programmes were making measurable impact across sectors, particularly education, and commended journalists for their positive reportage, urging them to sustain professional coverage of government activities. (NAN)
