The Federal Government has taken the decisive step of indefinitely suspending all mining activities within the premises of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and the OAU Teaching Hospitals Complex in Ile-Ife, Osun. This move comes as a response to concerns regarding suspected illegal mining operations in the area.
Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, announced this suspension following a meeting with OAU management, led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Adebayo Bamire, held on Tuesday in Abuja. The decision was prompted by calls from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) for investigations into reports of illicit mining activities at OAU, which were deemed to pose significant risks to the safety and well-being of students and staff.
Echoing these concerns, the National Association of University Students, OAU chapter, also condemned the reported activities and urged relevant authorities to take swift action. In response, the school management formally lodged a complaint with the government, prompting immediate intervention.
Dr. Alake disclosed that officials from the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) and the Mines Inspectorate were dispatched to the institution to conduct on-site assessments and preliminary investigations. Upon receiving preliminary reports confirming the presence of mining activities, the ministry ordered a halt to all operations, legal or otherwise, pending further scrutiny.
During subsequent discussions, it was revealed that some of the allegedly illegal operators had presented licenses and consent letters pertaining to their activities. However, the authenticity of these documents needed verification, prompting the immediate suspension of all activities to facilitate a thorough examination.
Prof. Bamire highlighted OAU's expertise in geology and mining, emphasizing the university's potential to contribute significantly to the mining sector through research and training initiatives. He disclosed plans for the establishment of a cutting-edge research and training facility focused on mineral resources within the university, aimed at enhancing exploration and research capabilities.
Furthermore, Prof. Bamire mentioned OAU's application for an exploration license, which, if approved, would enable the university to conduct legal activities such as research and exploration on mineral resources both within its premises and across the country. This strategic move aligns with OAU's commitment to advancing the mining sector's development while leveraging its academic expertise and resources for national benefit.
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