The Nasarawa State Government has ordered Lideal Mines Company to immediately withdraw all operational facilities, personnel, and machinery from the Endo Community, Udege Development Area of Nasarawa Local Government Area ( LGA).
The State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Dr Margaret Elayo announced this on Wednesday at a Press briefing held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, Lafia.
Dr Elayo said the state has granted the company a “stipulated period” to conclude the withdrawal process.
The Commissioner emphasised that the decision followed a rigorous review of stakeholder consultations and security reports.
”This action is in line with the commitment of the administration to uphold lawful mining practices, maintain peace within host communities, and ensure strict compliance with government directives,” the Commissioner stated.
The Commissioner stated that the action was in line with Governor Abdullahi Sule commitment to preserve the state’s mineral sector explaining that mining must transit from mere extraction to a model that includes local processing and community development.
According to the Commissioner, the decision was taken in the “overriding public interest” to ensure that investors align with the state’s policy on establishing functional processing facilities.
”His Excellency has consistently maintained that mining activities within the State must align with the policy direction of the Government, particularly the requirement for investors to establish functional processing facilities that directly benefit host communities,” the Commissioner added.
Dr Elayo disclosed that to prevent breakdown of law and order or unauthorised activities at the site, security agencies would be deployed to the cadastral units in Udege immediately.
She reassured the public that Nasarawa remains open for business, provided that business is conducted within the law.
”The Nasarawa State Government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for genuine investors while also ensuring that all operators comply with the laws, policies, and developmental objectives of the State” , she said.
The Commissioner urged members of the Endo community and all stakeholders to remain law-abiding as these reforms are implemented to strengthen the mining sector for the collective benefit of the state.
