The Lagos State Government has called on solid minerals stakeholders in the sector to avoid practices that can lead to environmental pollution, urging the stakeholders to focus on minimising the environmental hazards caused by sand spillage on roads.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum organised by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources held in Alausa, Ikeja, recently, the Chairman of the Lagos State House Assembly Committee on Energy and Mineral Resources, Hon. Sabur Oluwa cited relevant laws governing the solid minerals sector and urged the stakeholders to comply.
He stressed the importance of stakeholders supporting government initiatives aimed at safeguarding the state’s critical assets for the benefit of the entire residents.
The Lawmaker called on stakeholders in the energy and mineral resources sector to comply with all guidelines and collaborate with the regulators in line with the THEMES Plus Agenda of the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led administration to ensure a safer environment for all.
Delivering the Keynote Address at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Mineral Resources, Okanlawon Olowu emphasised the importance of proper coordination in mining operations to protect the environment.
While addressing the stakeholders on the theme of the forum, tagged: “The Menace of Sand Spillage on Our Roads and Its Environmental Impact”, Olowu noted that the meeting was aimed at discussing strategies to develop Lagos’ mineral resources sector through responsible mining practices.
“Permit me to recognize the indispensable role that mineral resources play in sustaining our existence and in powering the infrastructure development of our dear state”.
“The minerals you mine serve as the foundation upon which our urban landscape is built. However, this meeting should be seen as an opportunity to harmonise the responsible management of mining and dredging operations, ensuring environmental stability and sustainability while reducing the negative impact of mining to the barest minimum”, Olowu said.
Similarly, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Engr. Abiola Kosegbe urged participants to support the present administration’s drive towards promoting sustainable mining and minimising related environmental impacts in Lagos State.
The forum brought together top government officials, traditional rulers, representatives from associations of dredgers, miners, truck operators, and other participants in the mineral resources sector. They all contributed to the discussion on how best to move the sector and the state forward.
