🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Cross River stakeholders advocate for stronger collaboration to curb illegal mining
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Stakeholders in Cross River State's mining sector have called for enhanced collaboration among federal, state, and local governments, as well as traditional institutions and security agencies, to combat illegal mining and reduce communal conflicts. This appeal was made during a stakeholders' engagement in Calabar, organized by the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals and the Cross River State Government, focusing on environmental safety and community relations. Federal Mines Officer Ayelabola Olubunmi stated the program aims to boost state revenue from mining by blocking leakages and doubling earnings from solid minerals. He emphasized the need for a clear roadmap to minimize illegal mining, which he described as predominant and a cause of revenue loss and environmental damage. Prof Archibong Otu, Chairman of the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee, highlighted the environmental and public health implications of illegal mining. He criticized regulatory authorities for over-issuing licenses without adequate community consultation, leading to disputes, and called for stronger engagement with community leaders for monitoring and reporting. Commissioner for Solid Minerals Effiom Ekaha stressed the importance of seamless collaboration across all government tiers and host communities to develop the sector and reduce disputes. He warned that investors must have proper authorization to operate and advised community leaders to document and register land agreements t
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Inter Miami secured a 3-2 victory over Chicago Fire, with Luis Suárez scoring twice and Preston Plambeck netting a late winner. The match marked Robert Lewandowski's Major League Soccer debut for Chicago Fire, following his transfer from Barcelona. Lewandowski played 63 minutes, commenting that he needs more time to integrate with his new team. Chicago initially took the lead with an own goal in the 18th minute. Suárez equalized from a penalty in the 27th minute and put Miami ahead in the second half. Puso Dithejane leveled the score for Chicago in the 67th minute before Plambeck sealed Miami's win three minutes from time. Inter Miami played without Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul, who were rested after the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos stated there is no pressure for their immediate return, acknowledging their physical and mental wear from the World Cup. The win moved Inter Miami to second place in the Eastern Conference, five points behind leaders Nashville.
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