Secretary to the Niger State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, has chaired a high-level strategic meeting aimed at addressing the growing concerns of illegal mining activities and the unlawful settlement of herders at the Gurara Waterfalls in Gurara Local Government Area of the state.
The meeting which was held in Minna, brought together key stakeholders, including the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and representatives of the Ministries of Culture and Tourism, Homeland Security, Mineral Resources, Lands and Survey.
The meeting focused on developing actionable measures to safeguard the natural heritage of the waterfalls and restore order within the area.
In his remarks, Secretary to the Niger State Government, represented by the Permanent Secretary (Political Affairs), SSG’s Office, James Bake, expressed deep concern over the environmental degradation and security risks posed by illegal mining and unregulated settlements.
Alhaji Abubakar Usman further directed all relevant authorities to intensify surveillance, enforce existing regulations, and collaborate closely with local communities to prevent further encroachment and illegal activities in the area.
A multi-sectoral committee comprising representatives from the Ministries of Lands, Justice, Tourism, and other relevant agencies is to be constituted to assess land ownership issues, assess encroachment, and recommend appropriate solutions, including compensation where necessary.
PR ALIYU LAWAL.
