The Chairman, Ebonyi State House of Assembly Committee on Mineral Development and member representing Ikwo North Constituency, Hon. Ifeanyi Nwakpu, has urged mining companies operating in the state to strictly adhere to laid-down procedures and regulations guiding the industry.
Hon. Nwakpu gave the directive during an oversight visit by the House Committee on Solid Mineral Development to First Patriot Company, formerly known as Royal Company Limited.
He emphasized the importance of working in collaboration with relevant government agencies, noting that such synergy would enhance productivity and ensure the sector is well harnessed for the benefit of the state and its people.
The lawmaker also commended the Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, for his administration’s commitment to revamping all sectors of the economy. He assured that the solid mineral sector would equally benefit from the governor’s development strides.
Addressing the management of First Patriot Company, Hon. Nwakpu stressed the need to prioritize the safety and welfare of workers. He also advised communities engaging with mining companies to always involve both the State Government and the House of Assembly in any agreement to ensure proper guidance and transparency.
He further lauded the company for providing safety gadgets to its workers, describing it as a step in the right direction.
In his response, the Project Manager of First Patriot Company, Mr. Himanshu Sharma, revealed that the company had not been in operation for the past year but had concluded plans to relocate to a new mining site.
He appreciated the Committee for the oversight visit and affirmed the company’s commitment to complying with all mining laws and regulations.