By Prevail Inegbenose
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe, lawful and environmentally responsible mining operations across the territory.
The Administration stated this through its Department of Solid Minerals and Allied Matters (DSMAM) following a comprehensive inspection of quarry and mine sites in the Bwari area of the Federal Capital Territory.
Leading one of the inspection teams, the Deputy Director of the Quarry and Economic Ecology Division, Timothy Shemang, said the exercise was part of efforts to safeguard lives, protect the environment and ensure strict compliance with approved operational standards.
The inspection focused on key regulatory areas, including operational safety, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), environmental management practices and the verification of statutory documents.
Officials also checked the validity of operating licences, surface rent receipts and mine clearance permits at the sites visited.
Shemang stressed that the FCTA was committed to maintaining a transparent and constructive relationship with mining operators while ensuring compliance with the rules governing the sector.
He, however, warned operators against engaging in illegal mining activities or failing to meet their statutory obligations.
“Any operator who fails to pay surface rent or obtain the required clearance permit risks sanctions, including suspension or closure,” he cautioned.
He said the administration would continue to enforce the Standard Operational Procedures (SOP) approved for mining activities in the FCT.
The inspection comes amid concerns over unregulated quarrying activities and their potential impact on the environment and safety of residents, particularly in areas vulnerable to the effects of industrial rock blasting.
While some of the sites inspected were found to be compliant with regulatory requirements, others were issued compliance notices to correct identified lapses.
The lapses included inadequate use of PPE, insufficient safety signage and deficiencies in statutory documentation.
The Deputy Director urged mining companies and quarry operators to cooperate with DSMAM and take necessary measures to address identified shortcomings.
He noted that maintaining safe mining operations was essential not only for protecting workers but also for safeguarding host communities and the environment.
The FCTA said DSMAM would continue its regulatory oversight of the mining sector to promote responsible mineral resource management, industrial harmony and environmental sustainability across the Federal Capital Territory.
