To regain its prominence as the leading coal mining state in the former Eastern Region of Nigeria, the Enugu State government has given mineral title holders  December 2024  deadline to begin operations.

In a communique issued at the end of a meeting between the state’s Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) and mineral title holders, the parties resolved to continue further engagement to identify additional challenges in the sector and recommend solutions that would help foster more inclusive and effective mining in the state.

They emphasised the need to sensitise host communities on MIREMCO’s objectives and how they could help ensure smooth business operations through cooperation with miners, thereby reducing disruptions.

To uphold transparency and accountability and ensure that all mineral title holders in the state comply with regulatory requirements, the committee agreed to demand the directories of all mineral titles in Enugu State through the Mining Cadastre Office (MCO).

To eradicate mineral title inactivity and stimulate economic growth in the sector, the committee reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all the titles become operational before the end of 2024.

“The title holders are urged to commence operations promptly, and MIREMCO pledged to provide support and address any challenges that may arise to facilitate this process,” part of the statement reads.

In his closing remark, chairman of MIREMCO and special adviser to the Enugu State governor on solid minerals, Engr. Samuel Okoro thanked the governor of the state, Dr  Peter Mbah and the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake for giving them the opportunity to make their impact in the sector, promising to ensure full compliance with all relevant regulations and standards.

“We are grateful to the governor of Enugu State, Dr Peter Mbah and the leadership of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, headed by them inister, Dr Dele Alake. We commend his visionary leadership and dedication to the ministry, and we pledge our commitment to ensuring that his leadership leaves an excellent legacy for the sector,” Okoro said.

He also urged the mineral title holders to do their best to make a difference, stressing that the committee is ready to collaborate closely with them to achieve maximum results.