The Nasarawa State House of Assembly passed the mining bill on Tuesday, which regulates the issuance of land consent and community agreements to mining companies by local communities.
Dr Danladi Jatau, Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, announced the bill’s passage during the plenary session, stating that the law would enhance mining activities in the state.
Jatau explained that once the bill receives assent, it will tackle the issue of illegal mining in Nasarawa State.
The speaker outlined some key provisions of the law, including penalties for violating or failing to comply with its regulations.
“For corporate mining entities or companies, a fine of N10 million or imprisonment for a minimum of 2 years and a maximum of 5 years will be imposed. Individuals found in breach will face a fine of N5 million or imprisonment for between 2 to 5 years. Similarly, any group of individuals will each face a fine of N5 million or imprisonment for 2 to 5 years,” he stated.
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Additionally, the bill mandates the establishment of a Community Development Fund (CDF) to support the sustainable welfare of mining communities through infrastructure projects and social services.
“Mining companies will contribute 5 percent of their annual revenue to the CDF. Half of the funds in the CDF account will be allocated for cash payments to the benefiting community, while the other half will be dedicated to financing projects,” he added.
The speaker instructed the clerk to prepare a clean copy of the bill for the governor’s assent.
Earlier, Majority Leader Suleiman Azara moved the motion for the bill to proceed to the third reading, with Minority Leader Luka Zhekaba seconding the motion.
