By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano
Kano state government has warned illegal miners to desist from their unpatriotic activities, which have largely contributed to the encroachment of settlements in rural communities.
The state Commissioner of Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Hamza Safiyanu Kachako, gave the warning while leading a joint delegation comprising senior ministry officials, a Chinese investor firm, and the owner of a mining cadaster licence on an assessment tour at a mining site in Zainabi village, Doguwa Local Government Area of the state.
Kachako, who was represented by the Director of Mines, Muhammad Bala, said the tour was aimed at showcasing the availability of targeted minerals and to facilitate discussions on the appropriate technologies for their extraction through modern mining procedures.
According to him, the tour was also in continuation of the state government’s effort to establish Kano as a premier destination for solid minerals investment.
Kachako further harped on the significant impact of artisanal mining activities in the village, noting that their presence has created environmental challenges.
He expressed optimism that a larger investor’s presence would contribute to transforming the local mining landscape, leading to formalised operations that could positively impact the host community.
In his remarks, Alhaji Sha’aya’u Jibrin, the Director of Environmental Protection, Control, and Safety, raised concerns regarding the detrimental effects of artisanal mining encroaching upon village settlements.
He directed local miners to cease encroachment activities and initiate environmental reclamation efforts by filling excavated areas with suitable soil.
He said the initiative aimed to restore the environment and enable community members to cultivate economic trees, providing future economic opportunities beyond mining.
Alen Zhang, Project Manager of Lanhai Mining Company Limited, expressed enthusiasm for the mineral deposits available at the site.
He said the company would deploy the necessary equipment to begin mining activities or exploration upon finalising a partnership agreement with the mining cadaster licence owner.
Malam Sa’idu Isyaku Maye, representing Santago Nigeria Limited, the owner of the cadaster licence, assured the visiting team of his company’s commitment to the partnership.
Adamu Ibrahim Dabo, Director of Public Enlightenment in the Ministry, said, The successful collaboration between the ministry, investors, and local licence holders marks a significant step towards the sustainable development of the solid minerals sector in Kano State.
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