By Sunday John
The Nasarawa State Government has banned underage children’s participation in mining activities across the state.
Margret Elayo, Commissioner for Environment, Mining and Natural Resources, announced the ban at a news conference on Friday in Lafia.
Elayo said the decision was part of renewed efforts by the government to sanitise the mining sector, protect child rights and prevent exploitation of minors in mining sites.
She expressed concern that underage children were being used as labourers in artisanal mining sites in some parts of the state.
The commissioner explained that the ministry received information that some mining sites in Wamba, Nassarawa-Eggon and Kokona local government areas were exposing children to health hazards and denying them access to education.
“Henceforth, no child below the age of 18 is allowed to be found at any mining site in Nasarawa State, either as a labourer, errand runner or food vendor. Any company, site operator or parent found violating this directive will be arrested and prosecuted in line with the Child Rights Law and the mining regulations,” she said.
Elayo said that the mining companies should engage adults aged 18 years and above, train them and provide them with the necessary safety equipment to work on their sites.
She also advised parents to discourage the use of their children in mining sites and they themselves should not be involved in it because of the dangers associated with it and its health implications.
The commissioner said the government would work with security agencies, traditional rulers and other community leaders to enforce the ban and ensure compliance.
Elayo added that the government was also working with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and relevant agencies to formalise artisanal miners into cooperatives for better regulation and safety.
According to her, the ban is intended to ensure that mining is done responsibly and sustainably.
NAN
