The Anambra State government has announced a major push to strategically develop its abundant mineral deposits, aiming to significantly boost both state and national economic and industrial growth.
Unlocking Anambra's Buried Treasure
In a recent interview in Awka, Professor Charles Ofoegbu, the Managing Director of the Anambra State Solid Mineral Development Company Limited, highlighted the state's rich geological endowment. He detailed that Anambra possesses a wide array of commercially valuable minerals crucial for agriculture, infrastructure, and industry.
The state's significant deposits include:
- Kaolin found in Ukpor and Ozubulu.
- Clay and bentonite in Achama-Agu.
- Ironstone and sand across Uga, Ogbunike, Nsugbe, Abagana, and Owerre-Ezukala.
- Laterite in Umunya, Enugwu-Agidi, Ezinifite, Awka Ihedi, and Utuh.
- River sand along the banks of the River Niger and Anambra River.
- Gravel, plaster sand, and lignite (brown coal) in various other communities.
Ofoegbu explained that this wealth stems from diverse geological formations, including the Mamu Formation, Paleocene strata around Ebenebe, the Ameki Formation, and Oligocene-Miocene deposits along the Omambala/Anambra River basin.
Combating Illegal Mining and Revenue Leakage
A primary obstacle identified is the prevalence of illegal mining activities. Ofoegbu pointed out that multiple unregulated entities operate outside the law, collecting revenues illegally and causing substantial financial losses for the government.
He criticized the chaotic regulatory environment, stating, "The existence of several regulatory organs imposing compliance arbitrarily, without certification from the Council of Mining Engineers and Geoscientists (COMEG), has created inefficiencies and revenue leakages."
In response, the state is implementing Solid Mineral Reforms designed to bring order to the sector. These reforms will standardize procedures for obtaining mining leases, enforce environmental safeguards, mandate corporate social responsibility, and ensure proper community development plans are in place.
Pathway to Sustainable Development
Beyond regulation, Ofoegbu acknowledged other hurdles, including limited infrastructure for extraction, processing, and transport, as well as issues of environmental degradation and pollution.
He noted a positive shift towards modern technology, which is gradually replacing traditional excavation methods. This transition aims to address the health risks and occupational hazards long faced by miners in the state.
"The mining sector must align with the Sustainable Development Goals by stimulating economic growth, creating jobs, building resilient infrastructure, and mitigating environmental impacts," Ofoegbu stressed.
The state government has expressed its commitment to bridging infrastructure gaps, tackling environmental concerns, and attracting necessary investments. The ultimate goal is to fully unlock Anambra's mineral wealth, thereby strengthening its contribution to Nigeria's overall development.
