The Oyo State Government has called for stronger collaboration among licensed miners, host communities and regulatory authorities to promote safe, responsible and sustainable mining activities across the state.
The call was made through the Oyo State Mineral Development Agency (OYSMIDA) during a stakeholders’ engagement meeting held at the agency’s office at the Secretariat in Ibadan.
Speaking at the meeting, the Director-General of OYSMIDA and Special Adviser on Mineral Development to the governor, Abiodun Oni, said the state government considers collaboration among all stakeholders essential for addressing security and environmental concerns associated with mining operations.
Oni noted that closer cooperation between licensed miners, community leaders and relevant government agencies would help safeguard mining communities while protecting the interests of all parties involved.
He explained that the mining sector occupies a strategic place in the economic expansion agenda of Governor Seyi Makinde, adding that the administration is keen on ensuring that mining activities contribute positively to the state’s development.
According to him, the governor’s interest in the sector is also driven by security concerns linked to mining operations, stressing that maintaining safety across the state remains a key priority of the current administration.
Oni further disclosed that the government had earlier taken steps to strengthen regulation of mining activities through the signing of an executive order aimed at protecting mining communities.
He urged stakeholders to sustain dialogue and cooperation, noting that miners, host communities and government institutions must work together to maintain peace and order in mining areas.
The OYSMIDA boss also emphasised the need for all parties to clearly understand and respect their roles and responsibilities, stating that such clarity would foster a more productive and sustainable mining sector in the state.