Gombe Governor issues Executive Order to regulate mining activities, safeguard environment

By Abdulwahab Muhammad Bauchí 

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has issued Executive Order Number 8 of 2024, for monitoring and regulation of mining activities across the State to protect host communities against exploitation and safeguard the environment. 

The order sought to address various challenges posed by mining operations, including environmental degradation, security concerns, and exploitation of host communities.

Key provisions of the Executive Order include the establishment of a Mining Activities Monitoring Committee (MAMC), chaired by the Commissioner of Energy and Mineral Resources. 

The committee comprises representatives from various state ministries, security agencies, and the Gombe Geographic Information Services (GOGIS). The MAMC is tasked with overseeing all mining operations in the state, ensuring compliance with state laws, and collaborating with federal agencies to minimize environmental impact.

A significant aspect of the order is the requirement for all mining entities to submit Community Consents and Community Development Agreements to the state’s Ministry of Justice through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources for vetting before any operations can commence. This measure is aimed at ensuring that mining activities are conducted in line with the interests of the host communities and that all agreements are legally sound.

Also, the order mandates that all personnel of mining entities arriving in Gombe State must undergo screening by the MAMC to verify their citizenship, relevant permits, and the legal status of their operations. This step is intended to curb the influx of undocumented foreigners and ensure that only authorized individuals are involved in mining activities.