Sodiq Omolaoye, Abuja
Students from Libata and Kwanga Wards in Ngaski Local Council of Kebbi State have appealed to the Federal Government to intervene in the closure of a mining site in their community and ensure its immediate reopening.
The lithium mining site reportedly belonging to the Three Crown Mines Limited was reportedly shut by men of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), through its elite Mining Marshals unit, over alleged gross violations of the nation’s mining laws.
The agency stated that the firm allegedly violated Section 46(2) of the 2007 Minerals and Mining Act and Section 48 of the Nigerian Mining Regulations, 2011.
However, the students, under the auspices of the Libata Students Association (LISA), stated that the shutdown of the site had stalled economic activities and disrupted corporate social responsibility projects, including scholarships for 50 students in various Nigerian universities and polytechnics.
In a letter addressed to the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dele Alake, the students reaffirmed their support for the company, describing it as a lawfully recognised operator that had contributed to youth empowerment, education and community development.
The letter, signed by the association’s chairman, Muhammad Suleiman Libata, and secretary-general, Samaila Muhammad, stated that the firm has, through its corporate social responsibility initiatives, sponsored 50 students from Libata and Kwanga Ward to pursue degree and diploma programs at various universities and polytechnics in Nigeria.
They noted that the landmark intervention has opened doors of opportunity for young people who might otherwise have never accessed higher education, enabling them to contribute to the socio-economic development of the community.
“We wish to place on record that Three Crown Mines Ltd are the lawful and recognised owners of the mining site located in Libata, having obtained the requisite approvals and operating in compliance with the extant laws and regulations governing mining in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Their presence in our community has been characterised by transparency, corporate accountability, and tangible contributions to development, especially in the areas of education and youth empowerment.
“We respectfully call upon the Federal Government of Nigeria, through your esteemed ministry, to uphold the lawful rights of the company as the rightful owners and operators of the Libata mining site.
“Ensure the immediate resumption of their operations in Libata without undue hindrance or obstruction.
“Provide a peaceful and enabling environment for the company to continue their lawful operations and their invaluable corporate social responsibility programs, such as the sponsorship of 50 students in Libata/Kwanga Ward,” the letter said.
