By Abbanobi -Eku Onyekachi, Abuja
The Urban-Rural Environmental Defenders (U-RED) says that it is worried over the Senate Committee on Mining and Solid Minerals’ plan to review Nigeria’s mining law, allegedly to favor Chinese investors.
The group’s Lead Director, God’spower Martins, argues that the Committee’s approach is one-sided, prioritizing revenue generation over environmental and host community rights protections.
Concerned with the Environmental Justice, U-RED fears that the review process may lead to the exploitation of Nigeria’s natural resources, compromising environmental justice and host community protection.
On the area of Revenue-Centered Approach, the group’s concerns stem from the Committee’s focus on revenue generation, which may overlook critical aspects of environmental protection and community rights. On the area of of Host Community Protection, U-RED emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that considers the rights and interests of host communities, ensuring that mining activities do not harm local populations.
The Senate Committee on Mining and Solid Minerals’ plans to review the mining law has sparked concerns among environmental groups and host communities. While attracting investments in the solid minerals sector is crucial, U-RED stresses the importance of a comprehensive approach that prioritizes environmental protection and community rights.
U-RED’s picture of Istanbul Quarry at Mbuko Community at Dutse Alahaji, Bwari Area Council, Abuja
