The Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah has called on mining operators to follow the rules guiding operations in the industry, stating that apart from helping government attain set economic goals, it will also be of immense benefit to the miners and the public.
A statement, signed by Tine-Iulun M.A, for Director (Press and Public Relations Unit) in the ministry said Dr Ogah, who gave the charge during his facility tour of BUA Cement, Okpella, Edo State as part of 3-day working visit to the state, said operators should support the commitment of the Federal Government to increased revenue generation by carrying out responsible mining for the benefit of all.
According to the minister, operating within Mining Extant Laws would engender peaceful coexistence between operators and host communities. He encouraged them to maintain good community relationship for enhanced production, stating that maximum production of the plant would be of immense benefit to the Federal Government and create jobs for lots of Nigerians.
Dr. Ogah noted that the interaction with Mining Operators would enable government know the challenges faced by operators and intervene by proffering solution. He added that the Ministry is committed towards helping them succeed, saying, “the success of the plant makes the Ministry happy.”
Ogah enjoined the Management to consider the request of the community and provide mast for cellular services for them, asking that they speak with cellular service providers on behalf of the community.
The Plant Director, Engr. Ahmed Idris, while revealing that 98% of raw materials used for production were sourced in the vicinity, stated that the Plant had two lines with a production capacity of 3 million tonnes each. He disclosed that they were planning to have more lines of production.
The Minister who was accompanied by the Edo State Commissioner, Ministry of Mining, Oil and Gas, Ethan Uzamere, the Zonal Mines Officer, Abdulkadir Adamu, the Ministry’s entourage also visited Okpella Cement Plc (Dangote) and Zhong xin quarry all located in the northern part of the state.
