Oyo NSCDC partners Ministry of Solid Minerals to tackle illegal mining
By Adejayan Gbenga
The State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, Commandant Augustine Padonu, on Tuesday received the newly deployed Zonal Mines Officer, Ibadan Zonal Office of the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Engineer Wasiu Ajibade, and his delegation at the Command Headquarters, Agodi, Ibadan.
The courtesy visit, according to Engineer Ajibade, aimed to foster a stronger working relationship with the NSCDC in a bid to combat the challenges of illegal mining and insecurity in Oyo State.
He emphasized the urgent need for synergy between both agencies to ensure the safety and proper regulation of mining activities across the state.
“Oyo State is highly mineralized and holds great potential to be a leading contributor to the nation’s revenue generation through solid minerals. However, this can only be achieved through proper coordination and enforcement of relevant laws. It is important that the NSCDC understands the motives and direction of our operations so we can effectively work together to tackle illegalities in the mining sector,” Engineer Ajibade stated.
In his response, Commandant Augustine Padonu commended Engineer Ajibade’s proactive approach and assured him of the Command’s unwavering commitment to partnering with the Ministry in addressing the myriad of issues affecting mining activities, particularly in the Oke-Ogun axis, which has been a hotspot for insecurity and illegal mining operations.
He further stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration in securing the sector and ensuring that mining operations are conducted in line with government regulations. Commandant Padonu expressed hope that Engineer Ajibade’s tenure would bring lasting solutions and prayed for his success in office.
Also speaking at the event, the Head of Unit, Mines and Steel, ACC Aluko Emmanuel, appreciated the Zonal Mines Officer for the visit and expressed the readiness of the unit to cooperate with and support the Ministry’s efforts. He reiterated the NSCDC’s statutory mandate to protect critical national assets and infrastructure, including solid mineral resources.
The meeting ended on a positive note, with both agencies pledging continuous collaboration to ensure a safer and more regulated mining environment in Oyo State.
