The Federal Government has suspended mining activities around the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC) in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alade, said he took the decisive action in response to reports of suspected illegal mining activities in the areas.
He said this in a statement signed by Segun Tomori, the SA Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, made available to newsmen on Tuesday in Abuja.
According to the statement, following a meeting with OAU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adebayo Bamire, and the Chief Medical Director of OAUTHC, Prof. John Okeniyi, Alake announced the indefinite suspension of mining activities within the university premises and its environs pending the conclusion of thorough investigations.
The minister revealed that upon receiving reports of illegal mining activities, officials from the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) and Mines Inspectorate were deployed for on-the-spot assessment.
Subsequent investigations uncovered some operators engaging in illegal activities, prompting the suspension of all mining operations within the affected areas.
During the meeting, university authorities expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate on addressing the issue.
Prof. Bamire emphasized the university’s potential to contribute significantly to exploration, research, and development within the mining sector.
He also mentioned the university’s application for an exploration license, expressing optimism about its approval and the opportunities it would create for research and training in mineral resources.
“The decision to suspend mining activities underscores the government’s commitment to upholding regulations and ensuring the integrity of mining operations.
“With the support of relevant stakeholders, including the university, the government aims to conduct thorough investigations and implement necessary measures to address the situation effectively”, he added.
