The Nasarawa State government has urged miners to adopt eco-friendly methods that will promote responsible and sustainable mining practices.

The State Commissioner of Environment and Natural Resources, Dr Margaret Itake Elayo, gave the charge Friday, at a press briefing in Lafia.

She said the state was ensuring that mining activities are conducted in line with approved environmental standards.

The Commissioner who emphasised the need for sustainable mining practices in the state, said “Nasarawa is blessed with rich mineral deposits that have contributed significantly to our economy.

“However, we have also observed increasing environmental challenges linked to unregulated and unsafe mining operations, including erosion, deforestation, water pollution, and the loss of farmlands,” Elayo said.

She explained  that the State Government, through the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources was  strengthening collaboration with miners, traditional institutions, and host communities to address the challenges.

The Commissioner disclosed that the Ministry will soon commence a state-wide environmental inspection and monitoring exercise across all mining sites to ensure compliance with best environmental practices.

“We are strengthening collaboration with miners, traditional institutions, and host communities to ensure that mining activities are conducted in line with approved environmental standards,” the Commissioner  stated.

“This initiative is designed not to intimidate or punish, but to guide operators and ensure compliance with best environmental practices.”

The Commissioner urged miners and community leaders to cooperate with government teams, adopt eco-friendly methods, and contribute to the restoration of degraded lands and the protection of water sources.

“Let us all remember that the true wealth of Nasarawa lies not only in the minerals beneath our ground but in the wellbeing of our people and the preservation of our environment,” she said.

“Together, we can build a state where economic development and environmental protection advance hand in hand,” she stated.