Illegal mining: Ogah urges companies to formalize operations

Posted by FN Editor | 4 years ago | 1,001 times



 

The Minister of State, Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah has again warned against illegal mining of the country's solid minerals. This is even as he urged dredging companies to formalize their businesses by obtaining relevant permit from Federal Government.

He made this call during his one day working visit to CNG Glass at the Guangdong Ogun Free Trade Zone at Igbesa, Ogun State, on the 28th February, 2020 after a tour of two dredging companies, Sky Mirror and Era AC Synergy Dredging Companies in Oto-Awori, Lagos State.

The call became necessary as it has been observed that most sand dredging companies in the country operate without adhering to government regulations with a view of paying royalties.

Dr Ogah said Federal Government is committed to providing an enabling environment for businesses to thrive and  encourage investments in the sector, noting that it would not condone companies engaging in illegal mining of the nation's minerals without proper licence and payments of royalties due to government. He stressed that any act of illegal mining is criminal.

The Hon Minister enjoined the Management of CNG Glass not to encourage illegal dredging by patronizing dredging  companies they know are not properly registered. He asked them to rather assist the government by patronizing only duly registered dredging companies. 

He further enjoined them to cooperate and interface with the Federal Mines officers for smooth revenue generation and collection process that would be beneficial to all.

Earlier, Mr Jesse Gao, the Assistant General Manager of the Guangdong Ogun Free Trade Zone, said only registered companies are allowed to operate in the zone. He assured of its commitment to collaborate with the government by ensuring timely payments of royalties by companies doing business in the zone.

Also, Mr Gao gave the assurance of his organization's readiness to collaborate with the Federal Mines Officers in the State in revenue collection from relevant companies.

Tine-Iulun, M. A
for: Director (Press & Public Relations)
02/03/2020

 


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