Safer Mines, Stronger Communities: PDTF and UNIJOS Lead the Way

Safer Mines, Stronger Communities: PTDF and UNIJOS Lead the Way

 

 

 

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) and the University of Jos (UNIJOS) have called on stakeholders in the mining sector to adopt modern and sustainable practices to tackle insecurity and promote economic growth in mining communities.

 

The appeal came on Thursday during a two-day capacity-building workshop for miners in Plateau State, themed “Enhancing Safety, Sustainability, and Community Development in Mining.”

 

Ahmed Galadima, Executive Secretary of PTDF, represented by Deputy General Manager, Projects, Paul Ohabuike, stressed that adherence to international safety standards can significantly reduce insecurity in mining areas.

 

“While security is a broader challenge, PTDF ensures miners are trained on best practices and safety standards. Following these standards can mitigate many insecurity issues,” Ohabuike said. He added that the programme aligns with PTDF’s research and innovation mandate and sets measurable outcomes to track impact on environmental management and community livelihoods.

 

Representing the Vice-Chancellor of UNIJOS, Prof. Samuel Odey highlighted academia’s role in tackling national challenges.

 

“This workshop demonstrates the power of collaboration between academia, industry, government, and grassroots communities. UNIJOS is proud to host an initiative that promotes responsible mining while empowering local communities,” Odey said.

 

Prof. Nuhu Samaila, Chairman of the UNIJOS PTDF Professorial Chair in Geology and Mineral Science, described the training as timely in addressing environmental degradation, unsafe mining practices, and tensions linked to artisanal mining.

 

“Mining sustains thousands of families, but economic gains must go hand-in-hand with environmental stewardship and social responsibility,” Samaila said. The workshop focuses on health and safety, mercury-free processing, cooperative development, and waste management.

 

Johnson Nwosu, representing the Plateau State Miners Association, and Peter Gwom, Plateau State Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change, and Minerals, highlighted challenges and regulatory gaps in the sector. Miners cited harassment, multiple taxes, revoked licenses, and high-interest rates, urging single-window licensing, transparent audits, and a dedicated mining security task force.

 

Commissioner Gwom called on miners to operate within the law, stressing enforcement of existing regulations. He also announced the state government’s approval to revive over 40 abandoned mining projects to curb illegal operations and boost economic recovery.

 

Over 250 miners are participating in the ongoing training at the University of Jos, Plateau State capital, aimed at fostering safer and more sustainable mining practices.