By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority, has called for collaboration efforts to check mining activities across communities in Cross River state.
The call was made by the Operational Head of the NNRA, Ememobong Essien, during a courtesy visit to the Cross Rivers State Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Ntufam Effiom-Ekaha Otu, in Calabar, on Monday.
He stated that the move is aimed at enhancing safety and oversight in the extractive industry.
Essien emphasised that the visit is to seek synergy in monitoring mining operations, particularly regarding Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials. She said these materials are often unearthed during mineral exploration and require specialised handling to prevent health risks.
“The partnership aims to ensure that mining operations in Cross River adhere to international safety standards, protecting both the environment and the health of host communities,” she said.
Essien informed that the agency’s mandate is to regulate all activities involving ionising radiation, pointing out that the agency will deploy all available resources to ensure that safe and standard practices are strictly enforced
She further highlighted that working closely with the State Ministry of Mineral Resources is essential for identifying and managing radiological risks within the state’s solid minerals sector, and called.for cooperation.
The Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Effiom-Ekaha Otu, emphasised the state government’s commitmenr to sanitising the mining sector and its operations.
Otu highlighted that the state government’s priority is to protect its ecosystem and populace from hazardous substances and unregulated mining practices.
“I want to assure the federal delegation of our full cooperation because the state government, under the leadership of Governor Bassey Otu and his People First agenda, is firmly committed to sanitising the mining sector and its operations,” he said.
He added that only authorised operators are permitted to function in accordance with Federal Government regulations and Cross River State Executive Order No. 1 of 2024.
