Enugu State Authorities Claim to Have Halted Unauthorized Coal Extraction, Closing More Than 40 Operations

The Enugu State Government has successfully cracked down on illicit coal mining operations throughout the state, with over 40 unauthorized mining sites shut down since Governor Peter Mbah took office.

This development was revealed by Engr. Samuel Okoro, Special Adviser to the Governor on Solid Minerals and Mining, during a press briefing in Enugu.

Okoro explained that the government has implemented measures to regulate mining activities, including the centralization of sand excavation and other mining operations into a single payroll and monitoring system.

Recent geological studies have indicated that the state's coal deposits may exceed the initial estimates of approximately 300 million tonnes, which could support the government's goal of generating around 1,000 megawatts of electricity from coal to address energy supply challenges.

The state has conducted extensive geological exploration, including geospatial mapping and geochemical investigations, to determine the quantity and quality of mineral resources across various parts of the state.

According to Okoro, this initiative is in line with Governor Mbah's policy of revitalizing dormant economic assets and unlocking the state's mineral potential.

Okoro stated that exploration is the initial phase of mining activity, and the government has undertaken mapping, geospatial, and geochemical studies to understand the available mineral resources across the state.

The government inherited over 100 mineral titles, with only a small percentage being actively developed, and has engaged with relevant authorities to address cases where licenses were not being utilized for productive mining activities.

Okoro expressed optimism that the solid minerals sector would increasingly contribute to the state's economic development through ongoing reforms and exploration efforts.