Dr Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has issued an indefinite suspension of mining operations at Obafemi Awolowo University, its Teaching Hospital, and surrounding areas. This directive is pending the completion of investigations into suspected illegal mining activities.
The minister made this announcement following a meeting with OAU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adebayo Bamire, and the Chief Medical Director of OAUTHC, Prof. John Okeniyi, at the ministry headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, the minister stated that the ban was imposed due to numerous complaints from students and residents regarding the impact of illegal miners on economic activities in the region.
Alake mentioned that the ministry swiftly responded to verify the claims after reports in the media highlighted the illicit activities of these miners who exploit Nigeria’s resources for personal gain.
There have been calls for investigations into illegal mining activities within the OAU premises due to the negative environmental impacts caused by unregulated mining operations.
The statement explained, “Following concerns over reports of illegal mining within OAU, we deployed officials from the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency and Mines Inspectorate for on-site assessments.”
“After receiving preliminary reports indicating ongoing activities in the area, the ministry halted all mining activities, including legal ones, for further examination,” the Minister confirmed.
Alake revealed that upon discovering operators engaging in unlawful actions presenting licenses and consent letters, thorough investigations were deemed necessary, prompting the summoning of university officials for discussions.
“Following a productive meeting, I hereby announce the immediate and indefinite suspension of all mining operations within the university premises, teaching hospital, and surrounding areas pending thorough investigations,” said the Minister.
Prof. Bamire expressed gratitude for the meeting, emphasizing the university’s potential to contribute to research and exploration within the mining sector.
“Our university boasts top geologists and mining professionals, and we aim to establish a research and training facility focused on mineral resources to support our community and contribute to sector development,” he stated.
Furthermore, the Vice-Chancellor mentioned the university’s application for an exploration license, anticipating the opportunity to conduct surveys and identify mineral resources within and beyond the campus.
Accompanying the Vice-Chancellor were Registrar, Kamarudeen Bakare; Head of Department of Geology & Geophysics, Prof. Olatokunbo Alao; Director, Physical Planning, Dr. Anthony Owolabi; Director, Maintenance Services, Engr. Olawuyi Isaac, with Prof. John Okeniyi, the Chief Medical Director of OAU Teaching Hospital, participating virtually in the meeting.