February 16, (THEWILL) – The chairman of the Mineral Resources and Environment Management Committee in Benue State, Barrister Fidelis Mnyim, has said that the state has 34 out of 44 mineral deposits across the country.
He said activities of illegal miners are denying Benue State the 13 percent derivation benefits.
Barrister Mnyim, who is the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order in Benue State, disclosed this at the news conference in Makurdi, on Friday, on activities of the committee.
According to him, the State was hugely blessed with over 85 percent of the country’s mineral deposits; saying the committee was also mandated to ensure that mineral deposits in the State were fully developed.
He explained that the committee which was saddled with the responsibility of advising the Minister of Solid Minerals on issues related to the sector would also serve as a link between the State and the Federal Government.
The Commissioner explained that the committee would also ensure that there were smooth mining activities in Benue Communities and good working relationships between the locals and the miners for improved revenue generation.
The Chairman further regretted that activities of illegal miners and improper coordination of mining activities were seriously affecting the State revenue and as well as posing a security threat as they bear arms in defence of their interest.
