The Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) of Enugu State is seeking to collaborate with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in tackling illegal mining activities in the state.
The call for partnership was made by Engr. Samuel Onyinye Okoro, Chairman of MIREMCO and Special Adviser to the Governor of Enugu State on Solid Minerals and Mining, during a courtesy visit to the Enugu Zonal Director of the EFCC, DCE Mohammed Shuaib Bello, on Friday, August 9, 2024.
Engr. Okoro emphasized the critical role of the EFCC in combating economic sabotage and stressed the importance of their support in managing the state’s mineral resources effectively. “The essence of this Committee is to manage our mineral resources, and the involvement of both state and local governments is essential for its success. We recognize the significant role the EFCC plays in fighting economic crimes, and we are here to seek your support to help us succeed in our mandate,” Okoro stated.
In response, the EFCC’s Zonal Director, DCE Mohammed Shuaib Bello, welcomed the collaboration and expressed concern over the increasing number of unlicensed miners operating in Enugu State. He urged MIREMCO to share intelligence with the EFCC to curb illegal mining activities. “Illegal mining is a major economic crime affecting the state. Collaboration between us is crucial, and we are fully committed to providing the necessary support,” Bello assured.
During the meeting, ACE I Hamza Abdullahi, Assistant Commander of the EFCC and Head of the Proceeds of Crime Directorate, highlighted the need for public awareness and education on the types of mineral resources available in the state and the specific licenses required for mining them. He noted that many miners misuse their licenses, operating in unauthorized locations, and stressed the importance of public enlightenment to safeguard the environment and ensure compliance with legal requirements.
Engr. Okoro assured the EFCC of MIREMCO’s commitment to providing all necessary information to enhance the collaboration between the two agencies. The partnership is expected to strengthen efforts to combat illegal mining and protect Enugu State’s mineral resources, contributing to the state’s economic development.
