The Imo State government has taken decisive action to address environmental and safety concerns by closing several mining sites in and around Owerri, the state capital.
Chief Ernest Ibejiakor, the State Commissioner for Mines and Solid Minerals, made this announcement through an official press release.
In his statement, Chief Ibejiakor emphasized the importance of adhering to environmental laws and urged all stakeholders to respect the closure order. The commissioner cited safety regulations and environmental considerations as the primary reasons for this action.
The affected mining operations span various locations across Owerri and its environs. These include the Umunkoto Nekede site, the Bet9ja mining area, and the FUTO (Federal University of Technology Owerri) mining sites. Additionally, laterite excavation activities at the FUTO Medical School Land in Avu Obinze, situated within the Owerri West Local Government Area, have been halted.
Further closures extend to the laterite mining site along the Irete/Onitcha Road Industrial Estate and mining operations in Azaraegbelu Emekuku. This comprehensive approach demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing the environmental impact of mining activities throughout the region.
