The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (MSMD) has reinforced its commitment to promoting environmentally responsible mining practices in Nigeria.
This was a key focus during a sensitisation workshop and town hall meeting titled “Environmental Obligations of Mineral Title Holders, Mining Activities and Climate Change,” held in Lagos.
During the event, the permanent secretary of the ministry, Dr. Mary Ogbe, represented by the director of legal services, Mrs. Nwamaka Odili delivered a keynote address emphasising the significant role that the mining sector plays in mitigating climate change. She urged stakeholders to adopt sustainable practices that both reduce environmental impacts and contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.
Ogbe reiterated the importance of compliance with the Nigerian Mineral and Mining Act of 2007, which clearly outlines the environmental responsibilities of mineral titleholders throughout the various phases of mining operations, from pre-commencement to post-mining activities.
“The Federal Government is committed to creating a conducive environment for responsible mining practices,” Ogbe stated. She also highlighted the ministry’s ongoing efforts to professionalise the Environmental Protection and Rehabilitation Fund (EPRF), a critical initiative aimed at ensuring that mining activities do not negatively impact the environment.
Amid growing global concerns surrounding climate change, Ogbe emphasised the need for stakeholders in the mining sector to actively engage in climate change mitigation efforts. She called on operators to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, embrace renewable energy sources and integrate sustainable mining practices into their operations.
In her speech, Ogbe expressed optimism about the future, stating that with collective action, Nigeria could build a sustainable future that benefits both its economy and future generations. She encouraged all participants at the workshop to contribute to the success of the event and its deliberations.
Director of mining environmental compliance, Dr. Vivian Okono also addressed the gathering. She emphasised the necessity for the mining industry to reassess its carbon footprint and align its operations with global climate objectives. According to Okono, “As professionals in the sector, it is our responsibility to ensure that mining activities contribute positively to the global fight against climate change.”
In addition to environmental concerns, Okono highlighted the importance of community development agreements (CDA), as stipulated by the Nigerian Mining Act of 2007. These agreements mandate that mining operators must not only extract resources but also ensure the socio-economic development of the communities where mining takes place. This includes providing essential infrastructure like clean water, electricity, and other amenities that improve the quality of life in mining communities.
The workshop featured goodwill messages from several stakeholders, including the Akran of Badagry, the chairman of the Lagos State Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) and leaders from the Dredgers Association of Nigeria and Women in Mining (Lagos chapter). These leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting sustainable mining practices and the sector’s responsibility to mitigate climate change.
The event also provided a platform for discussions on topics such as climate change, the social and environmental obligations of the mining industry, community relations and strategies for ensuring environmental sustainability. One of the focal points of the workshop was the professionalisation of the EPRF, a fund designed to rehabilitate the environment after mining activities have concluded.
The workshop underscored the vital need for the mining sector to play an active role in climate action, ensuring that operations are environmentally responsible and contribute to the well-being of both the country and its people.
