Ebonyi State Urges Mining Firms to Comply with Regulations

On Monday, Mr. Chinedu Nkah, the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, called on mining companies operating in Ebonyi State to adhere strictly to mining regulations, environmental standards, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) obligations. This statement was made during an inspection tour of several mining companies, including China Oriental, Tyson Rock, and Zotmann, in the Ivo Local Government Area.

The inspection aimed to assess the companies' operations and compliance with government regulations, focusing on tax compliance, license validity, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports, and adherence to international best practices. Nkah announced that a task force would soon be inaugurated to monitor mining activities across the state, including night operations, to ensure compliance with the Nigerian Mining Act of 2007 and the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Regulations of 2011.

He also directed all operators to submit their operational documents, community development agreements, annual mining plans, mine closure plans, and environmental reports to the ministry for verification.