By Francis Nansak, Lafia
The National President, National Artisanal and Small Scale Mining Cooperative Society, Alhaji Abdullahi Dantasidi has thrown his weight behind the 30-day ultimatum issued to illegal miners by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr. Dele Alake.
New National Star recalls that the minister recently issued a 30 days deadline to illegal miners in the country to join miners’ cooperatives or face the full wrath of the law.
Dantasidi’s support is contained in an open letter addressed to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development and made available to newsmen in Nasarawa State on Thursday.
He expressed wholehearted support for the decision, noting that it will go a long way in combating illegal mining activities on the country.
“Illegal mining not only poses a significant threat to our nation’s environment and natural resources but also undermines the livelihoods of countless indigenous miners who abide by the regulatory framework.
“Your resolute stance in this matter sends a powerful message that the rule of law will be upheld and that only responsible mining practices will be encouraged,” he said.
Alhaji Dantasidi explained that as critical stakeholders in the mining sector, artisanal miners believe that the minister’s decision is a step in the right direction in actualizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s goals in the mining sector.
“This initiative has the potential to revolutionize the mining sector, fostering cooperation, knowledge sharing, and sustainable mining practices,” he added.
He however urged the minister to embrace a collaborative approach by working closely with the leadership of artisanal miners in the country to bridge the gap between government officials in the cities and local artisanal miners in the forests so as to get unregistered or illegal miners yet to join a cooperative to do so before the expiration of the deadline.
“We are committed to supporting your efforts in any way possible. Whether through advocacy, resource mobilization, or capacity-building programs, we stand ready to collaborate closely with your ministry to realize the full potential of this initiative,” he said.
Dantasidi then commended the minister’s dedication and visionary leadership in steering Nigeria’s mining sector towards a sustainable and prosperous future.
“We are confident that, under your guidance, our nation’s natural resources will be harnessed responsibly for the benefit of all citizens.
“Once again, please accept our heartfelt support for your 30-day ultimatum and the establishment of miner cooperative societies. We look forward to witnessing the positive impact of these measures on our country’s mining sector,” he added.