In apparent response to a recent report published by The Explainer, the Federal Government has moved to suspend mining within the precincts of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile-Ife, Osun State. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, announced the indefinite suspension of all mining activities in the area. The suspension was declared pending the conclusion of investigations, which is to address concerns raised about unauthorized mining operations.
Dr. Alake stated that the decision to suspend mining activities came after preliminary assessments by officials of the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency (NGSA) and Mines Inspectorate confirmed ongoing activities within the university premises. The Explainer learnt that further investigations are underway to verify the authenticity of licenses and permissions presented by some operators found engaging in suspicious activities within the citadel of learning.
In response to the suspension, OAU’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adebayo Bamire, expressed appreciation for the Minister’s attention and underscored the university’s potential to contribute significantly to mineral resource exploration and research. He highlighted the institution’s efforts to establish a robust research and training facility focused on the mining sector, emphasizing its commitment to supporting both the university community and the broader development of the mining industry.
