By Christopher Ameh, Bauchi

The Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), Bauchi State Chapter, has commended Governor Bala Mohammed and the Commissioner for Natural Resources Development, Alhaji Mohammed Bello Maiwada, for policies and reforms aimed at developing the state’s mining sector.

The State Chairman of the association, Alhaji Musa Santuraki Pali, gave the commendation while addressing journalists in Bauchi during a review of the association’s activities for the first half of the year.

Pali said the reforms had improved investor confidence, stimulated economic activities and enhanced the state’s profile as a destination for mining investment.

According to him, Bauchi State has entered into mining-related agreements with about five countries, contributing to the growth of the sector.

He also praised reforms in the issuance of consent letters and mining permits, noting that the previous system, which involved approvals from village and district heads, often resulted in disputes and administrative challenges.

Under the new arrangement, he said, prospective miners are required to obtain approvals through the Ministry of Natural Resources Development and other relevant authorities before commencing operations.

Pali noted that the policy has strengthened transparency, accountability and peaceful coexistence in mining communities.

He highlighted the state’s efforts to attract investment, citing a reported $50 million investment by Shandong Minsheng Group in a tin and columbite mining and processing facility in Bauchi State.

He also disclosed that discussions were ongoing with investors in the cement industry following the discovery of significant limestone deposits by Resident Cement Factory Ltd in Gwana Village, Alkaleri Local Government Area.

According to him, the development could pave the way for the establishment of a cement manufacturing plant, which is expected to boost industrial growth, create jobs and support the state’s economy.

Pali further stated that the ministry is collaborating with international partners on the exploration and development of rare earth minerals, including monazite and zircon sands.

He also cited the establishment of the Bauchi State Oil and Gas Academy in Alkaleri as another major initiative aimed at providing training and capacity-building opportunities for youths and professionals in the oil, gas and mining sectors.

“These investments and development initiatives will significantly increase government revenue while creating employment opportunities for thousands of young people across the state,” he said.

Pali disclosed that the government, through the Ministry of Natural Resources Development, had commenced the registration of artisanal miners in collaboration with the association.

He explained that registered miners would have improved access to mining licences, equipment support, loan facilities and other intervention programmes.

According to him, more than 100 artisanal miners have already been registered.

The association urged miners operating in the state to register with relevant authorities and comply with existing regulations.

Pali added that MAN remains committed to supporting government efforts by mobilising miners for registration, organising sensitisation programmes, reporting illegal mining activities and promoting responsible mining practices.

He also expressed appreciation to the state government for its commitment to providing the association with a bus to support awareness campaigns on security, environmental protection and mining regulations.

Speaking on challenges facing the sector, Pali said many miners in remote communities were still unaware of the reforms and opportunities introduced by the government, while logistical constraints also affected outreach efforts.

However, he expressed confidence that continued collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources Development would help address the challenges.

Also speaking, the Deputy Chairman of MAN for Bauchi Central Zone, Alhaji Zaharaddeen Bala Dan Madami, commended the state government for its efforts to develop the mining sector and create an enabling environment for investment and job creation.

He stressed the need for sustained sensitisation of both licensed and unlicensed miners on the importance of complying with regulatory requirements and registering with the appropriate authorities.