The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has issued an indefinite suspension of mining activities in the vicinity of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), including the OAU Teaching Hospital, pending the completion of investigations into suspected illegal mining.
Dr. Alake made this announcement after a meeting with OAU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adebayo Bamire, and the Chief Medical Director of OAUTHC, Prof. John Okeniyi, at the ministry headquarters in Abuja.
In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, the minister cited numerous complaints from students and residents regarding the disruptive impact of illegal mining operations on economic activities in the area.
Responding to reports in the media, Dr. Alake emphasized the need to address the alleged nefarious activities of illegal miners who exploit Nigeria’s resources without regard for the law.
Following preliminary assessments by officials from the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency and Mines Inspectorate, which confirmed mining activities in the area, the minister took immediate action to halt all mining operations, legal or illegal, pending further investigations.
Upon summoning suspected operators engaged in unauthorized mining, some presented licenses and letters of consent, prompting the need for thorough verification, hence the invitation of university authorities for discussions.
Dr. Alake announced the indefinite suspension of all mining activities within the university premises, its teaching hospital, and surrounding areas until comprehensive investigations are concluded.
In response, Prof. Bamire expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with the minister, highlighting the university’s potential to contribute significantly to research and exploration in the mining sector.
He emphasized the university’s intention to establish a research and training facility for mineral resources, aiming to enhance its role in exploration and contribute to the sector’s development.
Accompanying Prof. Bamire were key university officials, including the Registrar, Head of Department of Geology & Geophysics, Director of Physical Planning, and Director of Maintenance Services, while Prof. Okeniyi participated virtually.
