By Tony Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Government has introduced new registration and certification procedures for mining activities in the state.
The move is aimed at ensuring a safe and regulated mining industry.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Information, Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo has approved the new procedures, which require prospective miners to register and obtain certification before commencing operations.
The procedures involve registration and documentation at the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Resources, followed by verification, screening, and confirmation by various state agencies, including the Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company, Ministry of Environment, and Ministry of Justice.
The final approval will be given by the Governor, while clearance to operate will be issued by the Anambra State Mining Reforms Committee.
The state government has warned that no miner will be allowed to operate without complying with the new procedures.
The introduction of the new procedures is seen as a move to sanitize the mining industry in the state and ensure that mining activities are carried out in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.
With this development, it is expected that the governor may consider lifting ban on mining activities in the state, any time soon .
For over a month now, meaning activities in Anambra State were suspended by the state government.
