The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has intensified efforts to ensure safe and lawful mining activities across the territory following an inspection of quarry and mine sites in the Bwari Area Council.
The inspection was conducted by the Department of Solid Minerals and Allied Matters (DSMAM) as part of the administration’s efforts to safeguard lives, protect the environment and enforce compliance with approved mining standards.
Leading one of the inspection teams, the Deputy Director of the Quarry and Economic Ecology Division, Timothy Shemang, said the exercise was carried out in line with the FCTA’s mandate to ensure that mining operators comply with established safety and environmental regulations.
FCTA Inspects Quarry Sites in Bwari
The inspection focused on key compliance areas, including operational safety, the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), environmental management and the availability of statutory documents.
Officials also verified operators’ valid operating licences, surface rent receipts and mine clearance permits during the exercise.
Shemang said the FCTA was committed to maintaining a transparent relationship with mining operators while ensuring strict adherence to regulatory requirements.
He, however, warned that operators engaging in illegal activities or failing to meet statutory obligations would face sanctions.
“Any operator who fails to pay surface rent or obtain the required clearance permit risks sanctions, including suspension or closure,” Shemang cautioned.
He added that the administration would continue to enforce the Standard Operational Procedures (SOP) approved for mining activities within the FCT.
Operators Issued Compliance Notices
While some of the inspected sites were found to be operating in compliance with the required standards, others were issued compliance notices over identified lapses.
The violations included inadequate use of PPE, insufficient safety signage and deficiencies in statutory documentation.
The inspection comes amid concerns over unregulated quarrying activities and their potential impact on the environment and communities across the Federal Capital Territory.
The department also highlighted the need for greater regulation of industrial rock blasting, particularly in areas considered vulnerable to geological hazards.
Shemang urged mining companies to cooperate with DSMAM and comply with all regulatory requirements, stressing that maintaining a safe mining environment is essential for protecting workers and host communities.
The DSMAM said it would continue to promote responsible mineral resource management in the FCT while working to achieve industrial harmony, environmental protection and sustainable development.
