Tanko Ishaya, a professor and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, on Wednesday reiterated the institution’s commitment to promoting sustainable and responsible mining practices, as the university hosts a two-day capacity building workshop for miners in Plateau State.
The workshop, themed “Enhancing Safety, Sustainability and Community Development in Mining,” was organised by the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) in collaboration with the University of Jos and the Professional Chair in Geology and Mineral Science.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Ishaya described the event as a strong example of the collaboration between academia, industry, government, and local communities.
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Represented by Samuel Ode, a professor, the VC welcomed participants to the University of Jos, referring to the institution as their “academic home and committed partner in national development.” He noted that the workshop aligns with the university’s mission to deliver knowledge-based solutions that both uplift lives and protect the environment.
According to the Vice Chancellor, the Middle Belt region, particularly Plateau State, is not only endowed with mineral wealth but also blessed with vast human potential.
“We believe that through education, research, and community engagement, we can transform extractive activities into engines of inclusive growth and sustainable development,” he said.
He lauded the PTDF for sponsoring the workshop and appreciated the facilitators and organisers for their dedication.
Ahmed Galadima, the Executive Secretary of the PTDF, represented by Paul Ohabike, expressed the Fund’s commitment to building local capacity in the mining sector.
He emphasised that empowering artisanal miners with knowledge on safe and sustainable practices would lead to community development and national economic transformation.
On behalf of the miners, Johnson Nwosu of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Plateau State chapter, raised concerns about several issues affecting the mining industry.
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He decried the appointment of non-professionals to head the Ministry of Mines, multiple taxation by various government agencies, and the frequent changes in mining policies, which he said frustrate investors and operators. He also described the licensing process as overly long and bureaucratic.
Nwosu called on relevant authorities to streamline the regulatory environment and create a more enabling atmosphere for miners to thrive.
He stressed that for initiatives like the PTDF workshop to have a lasting impact, the government must address the structural challenges hindering growth in the mining sector.
BusinessDay reports that the workshop attracted academics, industry stakeholders, community leaders, miners, and policymakers. It is expected to provide participants with hands-on training and knowledge on environmentally responsible mining practices, community engagement, and regulatory compliance, ultimately fostering safer and more productive operations within the Plateau mining communities.
