The Women Miners in Nigeria (WMIN) has called for strict compliance with Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as mandated by law for mining companies before they begin operations.

The association’s national president, Janet Adeyemi, made the call in an interview with journalists on Sunday in Abuja.

“Before any mining activity begins, companies should be made to submit an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as mandated by law.

“This will help in addressing environmental pollution in mining communities across states in Nigeria,” Ms Adeyemi said.

She affirmed that though the laws governing the mining sector were extensive, different regions had unique challenges, particularly in complying with EIA regulations, especially with illegal miners.

“Enforcement is a major problem, especially with illegal miners. Many illegal operators work without any form of coordination.

“The only solution is to continue enforcing regulations and educating people on the devastating effects of illegal mining on the ecosystem.

“The government must ensure strict enforcement and impose heavy sanctions on those caught violating the laws,” she said.

She added that companies should also provide an Environmental Sustainability Governance (ESG) report, which covers broader sustainability factors alongside the EIA report.

According to her, to strengthen environmental protection, Nigeria should adopt a framework similar to America’s Water Infrastructure Act (AWIA) to enhance the resilience and safety of its water systems against pollution caused by mining activities.

“We should adopt AWIA certification in Nigeria to promote responsible mining. It is essential because the consequences of mining can be devastating,” Ms Adeyemi stressed.

(NAN)