News
FG Raises Awareness On Illegal Mining As Economic Sabotage
Joel Ajayi
As part of efforts to curb the activities of illegal mining in the country and ensure solid mineral sector contribute significantly to the gross domestic product of the economy, the Federal Government has stepped up its campaign drive towards eliminating the scourge besetting the sector.
Speaking at a one-day stakeholders’ sensitization/enlightenment workshop titled: ‘’Illegal Mining, An Act of Economic Sabotage’’- organized by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in Ibadan; Engr Ajayi Gbenga, Zonal Mines Officer South West, explained that the spread of illegal mining in Oyo State and entire country, is an act of economic sabotage which had deprived the nation of substantial revenue, including causing serious environmental degradation.
During his presentation, the Zonal Mines Officer posited that the pervasive spread of illegal mining operators in Oyo State is an hydra headed monster that has negative multiplier effects on the nation’s economy.
He further stated that it poses a stumbling block to genuine local and foreign investors in the sector as well as a clog in the wheel of progress of efforts by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to diversify the economy in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration.
To this end, Engr. Ajayi commended the Federal Government for establishing the Presidential task force tagged ‘’Solid Mineral Special Task Force (SMSTF), which is saddled with the responsibility of curbing the alarming spread of the menace of illegal mining activities in the South West and entire country.
To actualize this laudable objective, he averred that the States based Mineral Resources and Environment Management Committee MIREMCO (as provided in the Nigerian Minerals and Mining, Section 19 of the Act 2007 and Nigerian Minerals and Regulations 2011) must cooperate with the State Governments to realize their mandate; stressing, synergy of efforts with the main committee (National Committee) of the SMSTF will empower the relevant agencies of government to achieve their overall objective of effectively curbing, if not outright elimination of illegal mining operations across the country; with the capacity to carry out a sting or crack down operations against them.
It is pertinent to state that the Solid Minerals Special Task Force (SMSTF) is structured to have the National Committee made up of the main committee and a technical committee at the headquarters level. The Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake is the chairman of the main committee.
Roles and responsibilities of the SMSTF include, but not limited to:a. Work out the operation modalities to check illegal mining activities and enhance revenue generationb. Undertake several unscheduled visits to all the flashpoints to combat illegal mining activity.c. Develop the inventory of flashpoints of Artisanal and Small Scale Mining sites and Mineral processing points across the country.
The workshop is a 2 in one Stakeholders Training and Sensitization/Enlightenment campaign on Illegal Mining As An Act of Economic Sabotage & Training On Soft-Computing Models For Crusher Selection And Optimum Rock Fragmentation: Application Of Crushware and Fragware: was organized by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development; and held at the Federal Secretariat Complex Conference Hall, Ikoloba Ibadan, Oyo State.
Politics
Ochei to Ndokwa: “Your Gas Must Light Your Homes and Create Jobs — Not Just Enrich Outsiders”
Elumelu Felix
Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, the NDC Delta North Senatorial Candidate, led a delegation of party candidates on consultation visits to traditional rulers and institutions in Utagba-Ogbe and Emu Kingdoms on Friday, 23 October 2026.
The delegation first met with the Obi Ndu Eze Council of Chiefs in Utagba-Ogbe, where Ochei outlined his vision for the development of Ndokwa Nation.
He expressed concern that communities endowed with substantial natural gas deposits continue to face inadequate electricity supply. Drawing on his background as a power engineer, he explained how the Okpai Power Plant could be leveraged as part of efforts to improve power supply across Delta North.
Ochei also called on the people to hold prospective representatives accountable by examining their previous performance and stated plans. He referenced his record as a former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, during which he facilitated constituency projects and oversaw the renovation of the Assembly complex.
Other members of the delegation included Dr. Ugochukwu Nwokolo (Overdo), Engr. Edwin Nzei (NDC candidate for Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency), the party’s candidate for Ndokwa West State Constituency, and NDC Delta North chairman Hon. Aaron Udoka Ebenuwa.
The team later proceeded in a procession to the palace of HRM Isaac Obi, the Oduosa I of Utagba-Ogbe. The visit drew public attention, with residents gathering along streets, shops, and market areas in Kwale.
At the palace, Ochei paid respects to the monarch and recalled the passage of the Anti-Kidnapping law during his tenure as Speaker as evidence of his capacity to deliver results. The traditional ruler, accompanied by his council, received the candidates, offered prayers for their aspirations, and urged them to remain committed to the development of Ndokwa Nation.
The consultation continued at Emu Kingdom, where the delegation was warmly received. Ochei assured residents of his commitment to promoting development through effective legislative representation. He stressed that reliable electricity must be prioritised, noting that improved power supply could stimulate businesses, attract investment, create jobs, and unlock local economic potential.
HRM Johnson Ekpechi, the Obueweh of Emu Kingdom, expressed support for the candidates’ development agenda, which he said aligns with broader calls for Nigeria to shift from a consumption-driven economy toward one focused on production and value creation.
The visits to Utagba-Ogbe and Emu Kingdoms highlighted electricity, infrastructure, economic transformation, and purposeful representation as priorities for Ndokwa Nation.
Ochei maintained that the region’s natural resources should translate into tangible benefits for its people through policies that support industrialisation, empower young people, and raise living standards.
Vote Mr. Peter Obi for president
Vote Dcn Chris Iyovwaye for Governor
Vote Rt. Hon Victor Ochei for senate
Vote NDC 5/5 ✌🏾
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