Kwara State’s Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, Honourable Abdulquiwiy Olododo, once again expressed strong support for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in its fight against illegal mining in the state. Olododo conveyed this commitment during a courtesy visit to the Commander of the Ilorin Zonal Command of the EFCC, Michael Nzekwe, at the Commission’s Office in GRA, Ilorin, on Monday, September 25, 2023.
He revealed that the government, led by Mallam Abdulrasaq Abdulrahman, is determined to declare a state of emergency in the mining sector to ensure that revenues generated from mining are utilized for the state’s development.
The Honourable Olododo extended a vote of confidence to the EFCC for its resolute efforts in combating unauthorized mining activities and other economic crimes in the state. He acknowledged the challenges the Commission faces and affirmed the government’s intention to complement its efforts by focusing on harnessing the mining sector’s potential to attract both local and foreign investors.
In response, Nzekwe commended Governor Abdulrasaq for appointing energetic individuals to his cabinet and expressed confidence that Honourable Olododo would positively transform the mining sector. He emphasized that Kwara possesses substantial mineral deposits, and when properly tapped, the resources across the state’s 16 local government areas have the potential to significantly boost the local economy.
The Zonal Commander highlighted the EFCC’s efforts in curbing illegal mining, including the arrest of over 80 suspects in the past ten months. He expressed concern about the extensive exploitation of the state’s resources by artisanal miners and emphasized that these resources, if managed correctly, could sustain the state’s economy and promote self-reliance.
Nzekwe stressed the importance of individual support in the fight against corruption, particularly illegal mining, and assured that the Commission would spare no effort in enforcing all relevant laws against illegal miners and corrupt individuals in the state.
