The Ebonyi state Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, Mr. Chinedu Nkah, Monday, charged mining companies operating in the state to comply strictly with mining regulations, environmental standards and corporate social responsibility (CSR) obligations or face sanctions.
Nkah gave the charge during an inspection tour of China Oriental, Tyson Rock and Zotmann among other mining companies in Ivo local government area of Ebonyi state.
He said the visit was aimed at assessing their operations and level of compliance with government regulations despite being delayed by other official engagements.
He further stated that the inspection focused on operators’ tax compliance, validity of licences, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports and adherence to international best practices in mineral exploration.
“We are here to acquaint ourselves with your operations and determine the extent of your compliance with the law. We want to know whether your licences and operational documents are up to date, whether you are meeting your tax obligations and whether your environmental impact assessments comply with international best practices,” he said.
Nkah stated that the ministry would soon inaugurate a task force to monitor mining activities across the state, including night operations, to ensure compliance with the Nigerian Mining Act 2007 and the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Regulations 2011. He also directed all operators to submit their operational documents, community development agreements, annual mining plans, mine closure plans and environmental reports to the ministry for verification.