Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has inaugurated a task force to combat the growing menace of illegal mining across the state.
Speaking during the inauguration at Government House, Uyo, on Wednesday, the governor said the committee would be chaired by Mr. Nsikak Ekong, Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources.
Governor Eno decried the surge in unauthorized mining activities, especially along the state’s coastlines, warning of potential security risks if the trend is not curbed.
“The Ministry of Environment cannot do this alone. They need the collaboration of all of us, backed with legislation. If we fail to check this menace, illegal miners could infiltrate our state and pose security threats,” he said.
The governor emphasized the need to identify all miners operating in the state, their profiles, types of minerals extracted, and tax compliance records. He cautioned that anyone found aiding illegal mining would face strict sanctions.
He also tasked local government chairmen to take responsibility as chief executives of their councils by reporting and addressing illegal activities promptly.
Other members of the task force include the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare; ALGON Chairman, Mr. Uwemedimo Udo; and chairmen of coastal local government areas.
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