The Elites Network for Sustainable Development (ENetSuD) has taken a significant step towards combating illegal mining in Kwara State by offering collaboration with the state government. On May 21, 2024, a team from ENetSuD paid a courtesy visit to the Office of the Honorable Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Dr. Alabi Afeez Abolore, to discuss ways to address the issue.
During the meeting, ENetSuD submitted a letter highlighting its interest in the Ministry of Solid Minerals due to its potential to boost the state's revenue and improve the livelihood of Kwarans. The organization also provided a list of 19 communities across the state where mineral resources, including gold, silver, and limestone, are being mined, mostly illegally.
ENetSuD urged the Ministry to propose legislation to prevent and penalize mining by companies that do not have a factory or company in Kwara State to transform the mined raw materials into the final product. This move aims to generate employment for Kwarans, increase the state's export capacity, and boost its Internally-Generated Revenue (IGR).
The Honorable Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Dr. Afeez Abolore, appreciated ENetSuD's efforts and expressed his willingness to partner with the organization to bring good governance to the people. The meeting also had the Permanent Secretary and a Director of the Ministry in attendance.
This collaboration marks a significant step towards tackling illegal mining in Kwara State and promoting sustainable development. ENetSuD's commitment to partnering with the government to draft legislation and policies will help ensure that the state's mineral resources are harnessed for the benefit of its citizens.
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