Gombe State Government has officially banned illegal mining activities within the state, warning that individuals, groups, or organizations found in violation will face prosecution.
This decisive action follows the signing and issuance of Executive Order No. 8 of 2024 by Governor Inuwa Yahaya.
The Executive Order, which took immediate effect, is designed to enhance the monitoring and regulation of mining activities throughout Gombe State. It aims to protect host communities from exploitation and safeguard the environment from the adverse effects of unregulated mining.
A key element of the order is the establishment of a Mining Activities Monitoring Committee (MAMC), chaired by the Commissioner of Energy and Mineral Resources. The committee includes representatives from various state ministries, security agencies, and the Gombe Geographic Information Services (GOGIS).
Its primary responsibility is to oversee all mining operations in the state, ensuring compliance with state laws and collaborating with federal agencies to mitigate environmental impact.
The order also requires all mining entities to submit Community Consents and Community Development Agreements to the Ministry of Justice through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources for review before commencing any operations.
This measure ensures that mining activities align with the interests of host communities and that agreements are legally sound.
Additionally, the order mandates that all personnel of mining entities entering Gombe State undergo screening by the MAMC.
While the Federal Government retains exclusive authority to grant mining licenses, the Gombe State Government stated its responsibility to ensure the welfare and safety of its citizens, particularly those in mineral-rich areas.
The executive order stresses the importance of mining entities adhering to the boundaries established by the Minerals and Mining Act of 2007.
The MAMC is also empowered to assist federal agencies in managing environmental impacts from mining activities and rehabilitating disturbed lands.
The order outlines the roles of the Gombe State Internal Revenue Service (GIRS) and local government councils in collecting state-based taxes, levies, and fees from mining entities, ensuring full compliance with the order.
In a related move, the state government has placed a moratorium on traditional rulers and community leaders, prohibiting them from granting rights of occupancy for mining purposes without the approval of relevant state authorities.
This step is intended to prevent unauthorized land use and ensure that all mining activities are conducted legally.