The Cross River State Government has announced plans to begin a comprehensive profiling of all mining and quarry operators as part of efforts to curb illegal activities and strengthen regulatory compliance in the sector.
The Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Effiom Ekaha Otu, disclosed this in an interview, stating that the initiative aligns with the directive of Governor Bassey Otu, to sanitise mining operations and enforce existing laws.
According to the commissioner, the exercise will capture all individuals and companies involved in mining and quarrying across the state, with a view to identifying unregistered operators exploiting natural resources without authorisation.
He warned that the government would not tolerate illegal activities, stressing that only licensed operators who meet regulatory requirements would be permitted to continue operations.
“The government is committed to putting an end to illegal mining activities. Anyone found operating without the necessary license will face the full weight of the law,” he said.
Otu also urged stakeholders in the sector to cooperate with the profiling process by ensuring proper registration and compliance with relevant approvals to avoid sanctions.
The state government noted that the initiative is expected to enhance regulation of the mining sector, improve revenue generation, and promote environmentally sustainable practices.