The National Assembly says the proposed Solid Minerals Development Commission will boost Nigeria’s socio-economic growth, create employment opportunities and strengthen efforts to tackle insecurity.
Senator representing Nasarawa South Senatorial District, Mohammed Ogoshi Onawo, stated this while speaking with journalists in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital.
Senator Onawo, who recently defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the African Peoples Movement (APM) ahead of the governorship election, said he sponsored the bill seeking the establishment of the Solid Minerals Development Commission to unlock the sector’s economic potential.
He disclosed that he also sponsored the Mining Rangers Bill, which has passed third reading in the Senate and is awaiting concurrence by the House of Representatives.
According to the lawmaker, the proposed Mining Rangers outfit is intended to address security challenges associated with illegal mining, noting that many banditry activities are linked to illegal mining operations.
Senator Onawo also highlighted projects attracted to his constituency, including the zonal headquarters of the National Examinations Council (NECO).
He further disclosed that his bill seeking the establishment of a National Eye Centre has passed third reading in the Senate and is awaiting presidential assent.
Aliyu Muraki
