Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, NMGS, has called on relevant authorities to ensure mandatory geoscientific investigations before mining activity is carried out.
It noted that such investigations would not only serve as foundation for sustainable infrastructure development but enhance environmental management.
Speaking during a press briefing in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, as part of activities marking 261st National Council Meeting of NMGS, President of the Society, Rose Ndong, decried the level of illegal mining activities going on across the country noting that aside from the economic loss Nigeria has suffered, the environmental degradation has left much to be worried.
She also raised concerns over push backs from citizens who engage in these harmful practices when being confronted, expressing hope that more sensitization would be created on this aspect.
Ndong noted that NMGS works with policy developers on suitable policies that the country would run with, explaining their efforts in pushing for a council that would regulate illegal practices in mining sector.
According to her, “NMGS will continue to advocate for mandatory geoscientific investigations as a foundation for sustainable infrastructure development.
“We are looking at how these minerals can be extracted safely without making it so chaotic. It’s not just our body, there are other bodies that are working with us as partners in sensitizing people, especially women and young children that are being used in some of these areas or sites.”
On the forthcoming 61st Annual International Conference and Exhibition (AICE) in Uyo, themed, “Optimizing Efficiency, Sustainability and Resilience in Resources Management and Infrastructure Development,” Ndong said there was urgent need to manage Nigeria’s natural resources responsibly while building infrastructure that is safe, durable, and climate-resilient.
She assured that the conference will place Akwa Ibom in a vantage position as a geo-economic hub within the Niger Delta region. She added that it would provide the State and Nigeria a unique platform to promote geo-tourism and investment, enhance infrastructure resilience, address climate and environmental challenges as well as strengthen national capacity in geosciences.
Her words, “Let me assure the state that hosting this event is very timely and strategic as NMGS AICE 2026 reinforces the concept of geoeconomics, where geological knowledge is transformed into sustainable revenue streams, job creation and skills development and improved land-use planning and infrastructure investment.”
She commended Governor Umo Eno for his commitment to Geo-tourism and sustainable environmental development through the ARISE Palm Resort.
“ARISE Palm Resort, harmoniously integrates the following: natural landscapes, geological features, recreational and tourism infrastructure. In addition, the State’s waterfront developments, extensive coastline, beach sands, wetlands, and estuarine systems represent significant geo-tourism assets with both economic and scientific value,” the statement read in parts.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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