Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State, Nigeria, has officially banned illegal mining within the state following a pivotal meeting with key stakeholders in the mining sector. This immediate directive aims to exclude only those operators who have legitimate federal permits, as the government seeks to restore order in an industry that has increasingly been linked to serious security and environmental issues. The governor's decision follows a report from PUNCH Online, which highlighted the detrimental effects of illegal mining, including significant revenue losses for the government and catastrophic environmental degradation.

The report underscored that unregulated mining practices have led to extensive deforestation and soil degradation, posing grave risks to both the environment and public health. The findings pointed out that illegal activities not only threaten ecosystems but also create dangerous working conditions for laborers involved in the sector. During the meeting held in Calabar, Otu voiced the critical need for a more regulated mining industry that could harness its economic potential while preventing further social disruption.

Otu's announcement reflects increasing concern over the impact of illegal mining on local communities. The call for 24-hour monitoring suggests a comprehensive approach to enforcing the ban, indicating that the administration is taking the issue seriously. By prioritizing surveillance and legitimate operations, the government hopes to mitigate the adverse effects of illegal mining, safeguard the environment, and maintain community safety, thereby fostering both economic development and environmental integrity in Cross River State.